Waco SSDI Lawyers Explain the Key Differences Between SSDI and SSI Benefits

If you’re unable to work due to a disability, you may be eligible for government assistance. But in Waco and throughout Texas, many residents are confused about which program fits their needs: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

Though both are run by the Social Security Administration (SSA), SSDI and SSI have very different eligibility requirements, payment structures, and benefits. Filing for the wrong one—or misunderstanding which applies to you—can result in a denial or serious delays.

In this article, our Waco SSDI lawyers explain the key differences between SSDI and SSI, who qualifies, and how to apply correctly the first time.

What Is SSDI?

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a program for people who’ve worked and paid into the Social Security system through their jobs. Think of it as an insurance policy you paid for with your taxes.

You may qualify for SSDI if:

• You have a disability that prevents you from working

• Your condition is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death

• You have earned enough work credits (typically 40 credits, 20 in the last 10 years)

Key SSDI features:

• Funded by Social Security payroll taxes

• Available regardless of your current income or assets

• Eligible dependents may also receive benefits

• Includes access to Medicare after 24 months

Want to know more about filing an SSDI claim? Check out this guide on applying correctly.

What Is SSI?

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is different. It’s a need-based program for individuals with limited income and resources, regardless of their work history.

You may qualify for SSI if:

• You’re 65 or older, blind, or disabled

• You have little or no income

• You have limited assets (generally below $2,000 for an individual)

Key SSI features:

• Funded by general tax revenue, not Social Security taxes

• No work history required

• Strict income and asset limits

• Includes access to Medicaid, not Medicare

If you have never worked or haven’t worked recently, SSI may be your only disability option.

Explore more in our post: Do I Qualify for SSI or SSDI?

SSDI vs. SSI: What’s the Difference?

Here’s a side-by-side comparison of SSDI and SSI so you can see where they differ:

Can You Get Both SSDI and SSI?

• Yes—but only in limited situations.

You may qualify for both SSDI and SSI if:

• You have a work history that qualifies you for SSDI

• But your SSDI benefit amount is very low

• And you meet the strict SSI income and asset limits

This is known as “concurrent benefits”. For example, if your SSDI benefit is only $500/month, SSI may add additional funds up to the federal benefit limit (currently $943/month for individuals in 2025).

Learn more about concurrent benefits in our blog: 👉 SSDI and SSI: Can You Get Both?

Which Disability Program Is Right for You?

Here’s a simplified way to decide:

• Have you worked at least 5 of the last 10 years? → SSDI

• Never worked or very limited work history? → SSI

• Low SSDI benefit and very limited income? → Possibly both

Choosing the wrong program can waste months. That’s why it’s smart to talk with a lawyer before filing—especially if your condition is severe or your case is unique.

How Waco SSDI Lawyers Can Help You Choose and File Correctly

Many people assume applying for disability is simple. But a large percentage of applications are denied due to:

• Missing paperwork

• Confusion between SSDI and SSI eligibility

• Incomplete medical records

• Income that disqualifies them

A Waco SSDI lawyer can:

• Review your work and financial history

• Determine which program(s) you qualify for

• Help prepare a complete, accurate application

• Represent you during appeals if needed

At Louis Law Group, we help Waco residents make confident, informed decisions about their disability claims. Whether you’re just starting out or trying to fix a denied application, our legal team is ready to assist.

Check out how we help with SSDI appeals.

FAQs

Can I apply for both SSDI and SSI at the same time? Yes, but only if you meet the eligibility criteria for both programs. This is called "concurrent benefits."

Does my spouse’s income affect SSDI or SSI? For SSDI, no. For SSI, yes—your household income may affect your eligibility.

Which program pays more—SSDI or SSI? SSDI usually pays more because it’s based on your past earnings. SSI has a fixed monthly limit.

How long does it take to get approved for SSDI or SSI? Most initial decisions take 3–6 months. Appeals can take longer.

Do both programs offer health insurance? Yes—SSDI provides Medicare (after 24 months), while SSI offers Medicaid (immediately in most states).

Conclusion

SSDI and SSI may sound similar, but they serve different people with different needs. Choosing the right one is crucial to getting approved—and getting benefits sooner.

Whether you're navigating your first application or appealing a denial, Louis Law Group can help you understand your options and take the right next steps.

Are you ready to find out which disability program fits your situation best?

Contact Louis Law Group today for a free consultation. Call 833-657-4812 or submit a free case evaluation form to get started. Don’t wait—let us help you take the first step toward justice and financial recovery.