SSI is a “needs-based” benefit. In addition to providing benefits to persons who are disabled of any
age including children, it also pays monthly benefits to people over age 65 whether or not they are
disabled. The key to SSI benefits is “financial need.” The “Financial Eligibility,” is
based on the person’s lack of personal resources and income to meet necessities of life.
SSDI is also called SSD. Social Security calls it just “Disability” and refers to the DIB, or the Disability
Insurance Benefit. Whatever it’s called (we’ll use SSDI), the program was created so workers who
become disabled and unable to work to their normal retirement age will be able to access their Social
Security retirement benefit early. Private pension plans would call this a “disability retirement” benefit.“
Financial eligibility,” is solely based on the length of time and amount paid in F.I.C.A.
payroll taxes.
SSDI pays a monthly benefit based on the amount of F.I.C.A. payroll taxes the person has paid into
Social Security over his/her working career. The benefit may be anywhere from one dollar per month to
around $1,700 per month.
(I know, weird site to find the info on... but it works)
http://www.hcvadvocate.org/hepatiti...1.1.1_Living_With_HepatitisC/ssi_and_ssdi.pdf