SSI and SSDI 101

Applying for SSI, SSDI & Disability Benefits

Receiving free money after you become disabled through a spinal cord injury can be quite unnerving. Some of us like it, while others want to go back to work as soon as possible. There is no right or wrong answer here. You should only go back to work when you feel ready. After all, a spinal cord injury can be a shock to the mind and body. It can take a while to heal.

If you are opting not to return to work right away, or if you’re newly injured, one of the first things you’ll want to do is apply for SSI or SSDI, which you can do online from the comfort of your own room. You will find the application link below in our “Resources” list. Chances are, you’re new to the world of disability benefits. Whether you’re curious about SSI or SSDI, both are explained below in detail.

When you apply online, you should apply for both types of Social Security benefits, if possible. Many people receive both benefits, but only if they’ve paid into the system for at least 5 years directly before their injury. For more information on these life-saving benefits for the thousands upon thousands of people with spinal cord injuries, read on.

What is SSI?

Also known as Supplemental Security Income, SSI is a Federal benefit that is paid for by the general tax revenue system. Many young people with spinal cord injuries who have not worked before typically receive this benefit (as they get older and work, they can switch to SSDI benefits).

What makes SSI unique is that a previous work history where you have paid into the system (if you’ve received a paycheck, you’ve likely noticed the small amount given to Social Security each month) is not a requirement. Instead, the requirements to receive this benefit must be the following: 1) Financially in need; 2) Over 65; and/or 3) Blind or disabled. This benefit is intended to help people pay for basic needs such as food and rent.

If you make too much income per month, you cannot receive SSI. Being on SSI, however, automatically makes you eligible for both food stamps (except in California) and Medicaid. If you’re interested in working part-time or more, check out the other helpful disability benefit, SSDI, below.

What is SSDI?

Known as Social Security Disability Income, SSDI is available to people with spinal cord injuries as a monthly benefit to help pay for basic needs such as food and rent. To be eligible for this benefit, you must have previously worked for at least five years, i.e., paying your portion of the Social Security tax with each paycheck. If you have done this, you can apply for SSDI. This is also a flexible benefit for anyone who wants to work and still receive a portion of their monthly cash benefits.

SSDI can also be applied for via the same Federal government website for SSI, which is listed below. After applying, be prepared to experience a waiting list. Some people wait 3 to 4 months before hearing on a decision on their case. The good news is that to be classified as “disabled,” you must have a disability that is expected to last longer than 12 months. In your case, because you have a spinal cord injury, your paperwork will likely be processed quicker.

Please review the following video on how to successfully apply for SSI/SSDI, and check out our Takeaway Points below.

Video #1: SSI vs SSDI – What is Supplemental Security Income?

Video #2: Balancing Work & Benefits after Spinal Cord Injury

Takeaway Points:

• You can apply for both SSI and SSDI online
• Anyone is eligible for SSI as long as they are financially in need or disabled
• When you become approved for SSI, you’re automatically eligible for food stamps (except in California) and Medicaid
• To be eligible for SSDI, you must have at least paid your FICA taxes and have worked 5 years before your injury
• SSDI will allow you to work and still receive a portion of your cash benefit

Helpful Resources:

• Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Disability & Medicaid coverage – Healthcare.gov – https://www.healthcare.gov/people-with-disabilities/ssi-and-medicaid/
• Social Security and Disability – Reeve Foundation – http://www.christopherreeve.org/site/c.mtKZKgMWKwG/b.4467503/k.3E94/Social_Security_and_Disability.htm
• Applying for Social Security Disability and SSI – Ultimate Disability Guide – http://www.ultimatedisabilityguide.com/application.html
• Apply For Disability Benefits – Social Security – http://www.ssa.gov/planners/disability/dapply.html