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What is the Difference Between SSI and Social Security Benefits?

The United States Social Security Administration (SSA) has a lot of different programs available to assist Americans in need and elderly Americans. About 178 million people pay into the Social Security system, and about 64 million people receive monthly Social Security benefits. Whether the benefits are for retirement, to help those with disabilities, or to pay survivor benefits, the SSA’s goal is to improve the quality of life for many of us. 


In fact, SSA plays a role in our lives directly or indirectly from the time we are born until we pass away. Most parents apply for a child’s Social Security number at birth. When you get your first and subsequent jobs, the SSA verifies you with your employer based on your Social Security number, which reduces fraud and ensures the accuracy of your earnings. When you get married, you should let the SSA know so that you may receive certain retirement, survivor, and disability benefits with your spouse. And also, the SSA has assistance for those who become disabled, who need financial support in difficult times, and in retirement. 


One of those main SSA programs available in the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program. Not to be confused with Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), SSI pays monthly benefits to people with limited income and resources who are disabled, blind, or age 65 or older.


In this article, we are going to discuss the difference between SSI benefits and what we generally understand to be Social Security benefits. If, after reading this article, you need help obtaining SSI benefits, then we invite you to contact an SSI claims lawyer in Jacksonville, FL, at RITE Law. Our number is (904) 500-RITE or you can fill out our contact form online. Remember, we provide a free case evaluation , so call today.


Applying for SSI, and Regular Social Security Benefits


If you are eligible for SSI, then it is highly likely that you are also eligible for Social Security benefits. Indeed, when you apply for SSI, you are also applying for Social Security benefits at the same time. 


Thus, it is rather easy to apply for SSI and Social Security benefits. That said, it may be a good idea to contact an experienced SSI claims lawyer in Jacksonville to ensure that your application for benefits is granted on the first try. Oftentimes, issues with an SSI application could cause unnecessary delays.


How Does SSI and Social Security Benefits Differ?


While you can apply for both types of benefits at the same time, they are actually different in a number of ways.

1. Don’t need to pay into the SSI program.   Social Security benefits are connected to something like an “insurance” program. That means that you need to pay into the system in order to ultimately receive benefits from it. Thus, you receive Social Security benefits if you have worked long enough and have paid Social Security taxes. SSI, by contrast, is not based on your prior work, your family’s work, or whether you paid into the system.


2. Source of funds.   Social Security benefits come from a fund that is created by the taxes paid into the system. SSI benefits, on the other hand, come from the U.S. Treasury’s general funds.


3. Additional help with medical costs with SSI.  In most states, SSI recipients can also get Medicaid to cover medical bills and other health costs.


4. Food assistance.   Unlike those who receive Social Security benefits, SSI recipients could be eligible to receive food assistance.


How Are the Two Alike?


There are some similarities between SSI and Social Security benefits as well.


1. Administration.   SSA administers both programs.

2. Monthly payments.   Both programs pay benefits on a monthly basis.

3. “Disability” standard .  The standard for “disability” is the same in both programs, though the definition of “disability” for SSI purposes is slightly different for children.


In sum, the goal of the SSA is a noble one – to help those in our country who are struggling and need a little assistance. Of course, as with any government program, however, there is a considerable amount of paperwork that needs to be done. 

Because there is a lot riding on the information you provide to the SSA to obtain SSI benefits, you should consider getting the help of a qualified SSI claims lawyer in Jacksonville to help you navigate the application process. 

 

Get Help from an Experienced SSI Claims Lawyers in Jacksonville.


The Social Security and Supplemental Security Income Disability programs are the largest of several Federal programs that provide assistance to people with physical and/or mental disabilities. SSDI pays benefits to you and certain members of your family if you have worked long enough and paid Social Security taxes. SSI pays benefits solely based on financial need.


As noted, initial claims for these benefits are often denied by the SSA due to paperwork errors or insufficient medical evidence verifying a disability. There are a number of levels to the appeals system that leaves most people overwhelmed and frustrated. 


At RITE Law, we started the firm for one reason – to help those in Florida and elsewhere have the resources of a firm that was “big enough to fight but small enough to care.” At Rudolph, Israel, Tucker & Ellis (RITE law) , we have the resources and experience to go to trial when it is necessary, and we have the wisdom to advise you appropriately. 


Without help from the Social Security disability benefits attorneys in Jacksonville on the RITE team, trying to make insurance claims can lead to a lot of frustration and time and money lost. When you turn to our firm, we spring into action, making sure every detail of your claim is addressed. We answer any questions you have and stand in your corner to give you the best opportunity to receive all the benefits you deserve. 


Expect lots of attention, passionate representation, and a healthy disdain for big insurance companies. We believe that leads to the best result possible. Unlike larger firms, your case isn’t handed to a paralegal or assistant to do the heavy lifting. The attorney you meet initially is the one who will be by your side every step of the way. 



Call us for help. Our number is (904) 500-RITE or you can fill out our contact form online. We provide a free case evaluation , so feel free to call us today.

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