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    SSDI vs SSI Coach

    Two different programs. Different rules. Plain English.

    Quick difference

    • SSDI — for people who can\'t work due to disability AND have a work history (paid into Social Security).
    • SSI — for low-income disabled, blind, or seniors 65+ regardless of work history.
    • You can sometimes get both.

    SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance)

    • You worked at least 5 of the last 10 years.
    • You can\'t do "substantial work" (under $1,620/month for 2025).
    • Your disability has lasted (or is expected to last) 12+ months.
    • Average benefit: $1,580/month (varies by your earnings history).
    • After 24 months on SSDI → automatic Medicare eligibility (regardless of age).
    • Converts to retirement Social Security at full retirement age.

    SSI (Supplemental Security Income)

    • For people 65+, blind, or disabled.
    • Income limit: under ~$1,000/month per person.
    • Asset limit: $2,000 individual, $3,000 couple (excluding home and one car).
    • Maximum 2025 federal benefit: $943/month single, $1,415 couple. State may add a supplement.
    • Recipients usually qualify for Medicaid, SNAP, housing assistance.

    How to apply

    1. Apply online at ssa.gov/applyfordisability.
    2. Or call 1-800-772-1213.
    3. Or visit a local SSA office (long lines, but personal help).
    4. Application takes 3-5 hours — gather records first:
      • Medical records, doctor names + addresses.
      • Work history (15+ years).
      • Names and dates of medications.
      • Job descriptions explaining what made the work hard.
    5. Initial decision: 6-8 months. About 35% are approved on first try.
    6. If denied — APPEAL. Most successful claims get approved on appeal.

    Get help — fee is free if you don\'t win

    • Disability lawyers — typically work on contingency. They get paid only if you win, capped at 25% of back-pay (max ~$7,200 in 2025). Look for "non-attorney representative" too — same idea, sometimes cheaper.
    • State Vocational Rehabilitation — free.
    • NOSSCR.org — find disability advocates by state.
    • Veterans — VFW/American Legion can help with VA disability AND SSDI.

    Common mistakes

    • Not getting medical documentation before applying.
    • Not telling doctors specifically what tasks you can\'t do.
    • Working too much during application — even part-time work can disqualify you.
    • Giving up after first denial — appeals win 50%+ of the time.
    • Hiring "paperwork mills" advertised on TV — go with vetted advocates.

    If you\'re close to retirement age

    If you\'re within a few years of full retirement age, sometimes early retirement is faster than fighting for SSDI. SSDI converts to retirement at FRA anyway. A disability lawyer can help you decide which path is better for your situation.