SSI – Supplemental Security Income
Cash benefits to disabled persons who do not have enough work quarters to collect Social Security Disability.
This is a program administered by the Social Security Administration.
Maximum benefit is $914 for 2023.
Many beneficiaries also receive housing assistance and food stamps.
Any SSI beneficiary automatically receives Medicaid benefits (even if benefit is only $1.00).
SSI beneficiary cannot receive a significant amount of money from other sources. For example, we cannot distribute money directly to a special needs trust beneficiary, as SSI can be reduced dollar for dollar.
Resource and Income Limitations.
SSDI – Social Security Disability Insurance
Cash benefits (contrary to the name) to disabled persons who have worked enough quarters and paid in enough to the program.
Amount of pay depends on length of employment and amount of salary at time of at prior to disability.
No cap on what can be received from other sources (there is a limit on how much can be earned from working).
Recipients are eligible for Medicare 24 months after disability determination.
SS – Social Security Retirement
Cash benefits for persons who retire with enough work quarters.
Can begin collection at retirement age between 62 and 70– depending on the year you were born (it is 67 now).
No cap to amount received and is dependent on amount of money earned while working.
Restrictions on amount of money that can be earned through employment for Social Security Retirement beneficiaries.
Medicaid
There are several types of Medicaid, an insurance program for needy individuals:
Medicaid for Children.
Medicaid for the Aged.
Medicaid for Disabled Adults.
Medicaid for Pregnant Women.
Institutional Care Program benefits – nursing home benefits..
Waiver programs/long term care.
Medicaid is automatic for anyone receiving $1.00 in SSI benefits, as it is a needs based program.
Family and children Medicaid has income limits but no longer has a resource test.
Other types of Medicaid (such as ICP) have resource limits.
Medicaid is administered by the State.
Medicare
Insurance program linked to Social Security Disability and Retirement benefits.
Medicare is generally primary insurance for anyone with another insurance policy.
Administered by the Federal Government.
