Question: What is the difference between Social Security disability and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) disability?

Answer: Social Security administers two major programs that provide benefits based on disability: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

SSDI benefits are based on prior work under Social Security and are financed with Social Security taxes paid by workers, employers and self-employed people.

To be eligible for an SSDI benefit, the worker must earn sufficient credits based on taxable work to be “insured” for Social Security purposes.

SSI payments are made on the basis of financial need and are financed through general tax revenues. Adults or children who are disabled or blind and have limited income and resources may be eligible for SSI disability.

The monthly payment varies up to the maximum federal benefit rate, which may be supplemented by the state or decreased by income.

Learn more by reading, Supplemental Security Income at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/11000.html, and Disability Benefits at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10029.html.

This column was prepared by the Social Security Administration. For fast answers to specific Social Security questions, contact Social Security toll-free at 800-772-1213.