Understanding SSI and SSDI for Adults With IDDs

For families supporting an adult with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDDs), two federal programs often come into play: Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). While both provide financial support for people with disabilities, they work in very different ways. Here’s an introduction to SSDI vs. SSI benefits.

What SSI Is and Who It Helps

Supplemental Security Income is a needs-based program designed for people with disabilities who have limited income and few financial resources.

Key points to understand include:

• No work history is required. SSI is available regardless of whether your family member has ever worked.

• Financial eligibility matters. The Social Security Administration looks at income, savings, and assets to determine eligibility.

• It’s funded by general tax revenue. SSI is paid from general federal taxes, not Social Security taxes.

• It provides healthcare coverage. In most states, SSI recipients automatically qualify for Medicaid.

• It offers limited payments. Benefits are typically modest and may vary depending on income and living situation.

For many adults with IDDs who have not been able to build a work history, SSI is often the primary source of financial and healthcare support.

What SSDI Is and Who It Helps

Social Security Disability Insurance is an insurance program for people with disabilities who have a work history (or whose parent or spouse does) and have paid into Social Security through payroll taxes.

Here are some important notes:

• It’s based on work credits. Eligibility depends on prior work and contributions to Social Security.

• It’s not income-based. Unlike with SSI, financial need is not the primary driving factor of this benefit; assets and savings generally do not disqualify someone.

• It’s funded through payroll taxes. SSDI is financed by Social Security taxes paid during employment.

• It also provides healthcare coverage. Recipients typically qualify for Medicare after 24 months of benefits.

• It typically offers higher payments. Benefits are based on the average earnings covered by Social Security over a worker’s lifetime, so payments are often higher than those SSI provides.

Some adults with IDDs may qualify for SSDI based on a parent’s work record, especially if the disability began before age 22.

Can Someone Receive Both?

In some cases, an individual may qualify for both SSI and SSDI if their SSDI benefit is low due to limited work history and they still meet SSI financial requirements. This means they will receive both SSI and SSDI payments and may also be eligible to receive both Medicaid and Medicare benefits.

For families of adults with IDDs, understanding the distinctions between SSI and SSDI can make it easier to navigate benefits, plan for long-term care, and ensure your loved one receives the support they need.

Navigate Disability Benefits Better With Progressive Lifestyles

Progressive Lifestyles, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation based in Waterford, Michigan, and has been operational since 1983. Our mission is to provide supportive and caring residential opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities throughout Oakland County.

We support small, licensed adult foster care homes and private residences with community living supports, home help services, and private-duty nurses.

A primary focus of our organization is to interact with the individuals we support through the “Culture of Gentleness” model. We seek to create a positive environment to help them feel safe and valued by maximizing praise, limiting demands, maintaining consistent structure, and reducing stress during transitions. Contact us to learn more, and consider donating today!