DON'T CONFUSE SSI WITH SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY

I'm amazed when I see Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) confused with SSI (Supplemental Security Income). Two different programs with confusing names.

Social Security jargon uses an array of confusing acronyms (SSI, SSDI, SSA, etc.).

I often go on the internet and see Social Security disability referred to as SSI. I assume many individuals think that "SSI" stands for "Social Security Insurance." IT DOES NOT.

SSI stands for SUPPLEMENTAL SECURITY INCOME. It is a type of welfare program that was once administered by the individual states to help very poor, aged or disabled individuals. This program is now run through the Social Security Administration (SSA). Here are reasons why SSI is NOT Social Security Insurance.

1. It does not involve any insurance. Nobody pays into SSI. Nobody is insured. Any SSI benefit is given on the basis of financial need (living below federal poverty level) and not on the basis of having worked and paid for SSDI insurance.

2. SSI does not require any work record or history. Even individuals who have never worked may qualify for Supplemental Security Income. That is not true with Social Security Disability Insurance or SSDI. The Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program requires recent work and recent FICA payroll deductions. If you never worked you cannot receive SSDI benefits (but you might get SSI).

3. The maximum federal benefit under Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is $794 per month in 2021. That is much less than the average SSDI benefit. In fact, the maximum Social Security Disability (SSDI) benefit is over $3,000 per month.

4. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is needs based and income/resource restricted. For example, an individual with only $2,000 of financial resources cannot receive SSI. A couple with only $3,000 to their name cannot receive SSI. By contrast, there is no financial resource/income limit for Social Security Disability (SSDI).

WHY ALL THE CONFUSION?

I think the confusion stems from the fact that both SSI and SSDI are administered through the Social Security office. While they are very different programs, alike in only a few ways and different in many others, both programs are run through the Social Security Administration (SSA). Many people believe that any benefit coming out of the Social Security office is "Social Security disability." It is not.

I would encourage anyone thinking about applying for either SSI or SSDI to speak with someone knowledgeable about both programs. You may call your local Social Security office: Huntsville 866-593-0665, or Decatur 888-28-9185, or Albertville at 800-521-0073 for free information. In the Florence area, call 855--884-3407.

To speak with someone who fights to get claimants approved for benefits, speak to the Forsythe Firm at (256) 799-0297.

Knowledge is power, especially in the Social Security world. The Forsythe Firm has been fighting for claimant rights for more than two decades.