Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are two programs of the Social Security Administration (SSA) that help people who are unable to work because of disability.
The SSA rejects most claims.
Working with an experienced disability attorney can help you avoid mistakes during the application process that could lead to denials. For more information about filing a disability claim, talk to a Kansas City SSDI lawyer.
Understanding the differences between SSI and SSDI can be challenging. While they are two different programs, people often speak about them together. SSI and SSDI have the same application process and disability requirements. SSI is based on financial need, while SSDI is an insurance program based on work history.
SSI is primarily for people who have not worked long enough to earn the minimum work credits needed for SSDI. While the work history is not necessary to qualify, SSI has income and asset restrictions.
You pay into the SSA trust fund through your FICA withholding on your paycheck. SSDI payments are linked to the amount of withholding and are usually greater than SSI benefits.
An experienced SSDI attorney in Kansas City can review a claim and help guide the applicant.
Qualifying for SSDI benefits means meeting certain criteria. The SSA requires 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 calendar years.
Evaluating whether you are currently able to work is the issue in any disability claim. If you cannot perform your previous job, the SSA assesses whether you can do other types of work. The SSA considers you disabled if you cannot engage in Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA).
The SSA will consider the severity of your medical condition. A qualifying condition must be long-term—meaning it has persisted or is expected to persist for at least a year or result in death. The SSA has a list of impairments, but an impairment does not need to be listed to qualify. An SSDI lawyer in Kansas City can help to evaluate your condition and determine whether you are eligible.
A Kansas City SSDI lawyer can guide you through the process. Schedule a consultation to get more information.