SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance)
SSDI is insurance you paid for through Social Security taxes on your paychecks. To qualify, you generally need enough recent work credits. The amount you get is based on your past earnings, not on your current income or savings.
The average SSDI payment for disabled workers is about $1,701 a month in early 2027, according to Social Security.
After you've been entitled to SSDI for 24 months, you usually become eligible for Medicare.
SSI (Supplemental Security Income)
SSI is a needs-based program. It doesn't depend on work history. To qualify, your income and resources must be very limited: generally no more than $2,000 in countable resources for one person, or $3,000 for a couple.
The federal SSI payment in 2027 is up to $1,029 a month for one person and $1,544 for a couple. Some states add a supplement. Other income can lower the payment.
In most states, SSI comes with Medicaid.
Can you get both?
Yes. If your SSDI payment is low and you meet SSI's income and resource limits, you may get both. This is sometimes called a 'concurrent' claim.
Applied and stuck, or denied? See if you may qualify for a free case review →
Frequently asked questions
Which pays more, SSDI or SSI?
It depends. SSDI is based on your past earnings, so it's often higher for people with long work histories. SSI has a set federal maximum that's reduced by other income.
Does SSI count my spouse's income?
It can. If you're married and live together, some of your spouse's income and resources may count.
Do both programs use the same definition of disability?
Yes, for adults the medical rules are the same.
Sources
- SSA, 2027 Cost-of-Living Adjustment Fact Sheet: www.ssa.gov/news/en/cola/factsheets/2027.html
- SSA, Supplemental Security Income (SSI): www.ssa.gov/ssi
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Disability Drew is not affiliated with the Social Security Administration.