What is the difference between Disability Insurance Benefits (DIB) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) in Social Security disability?

What is considered a disability?

DIB: Physical or Mental Impairment that last 12 months or more that prevents you from working a full-time job
SSI: Same as DIB

Credit Requirements

DIB: Must have paid in enough taxes in to Social Security recently to be eligible
SSI: No credit requirements

Financial Limitations

DIB: If you are working part time, you cannot earn over the level for substantial gainful activity (2008: $940/month)
SSI: Household income and assets must be low enough to qualify

How Much Can I Get?

DIB: Depends on how much you have paid into Social Security
SSI: Currently, $637 maximum per month, but this decreases dollar for dollar with any income you have

Any Health Insurance Included?

DIB: Medicare: Eligible 2 years after you start receiving benefits
SSI: Medicaid: Eligible as soon as you are declared disabled

Can my children get benefits?

DIB: Yes. Children are entitled to a dependent’s benefit. But there is a family maximum.
SSI: Not as a result of your disability. Children must have a disability of their own.

Who are these Benefits For?

DIB: 1.) Anyone who has paid in enough to be insured 2.) Anyone who may be eligible on a spouse or parent’s work record
SSI: 1.) Adults of Retirement Age 2.) Disabled Adults Under Retirement Age 3.) Minor Children

About the Author

Hardison & Cochran was established based on the conviction that a modern approach was essential in today’s legal landscape. Focused on delivering exceptional results through a skilled team, the firm prioritizes personal attention, integrity, and client needs. Each attorney, paralegal, and staff member is dedicated to this vision. Over three decades, with Ben Cochran overseeing daily operations, the firm has evolved into a highly respected practice.