What are Social Security Disability Income (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?
Social Security Disability Income (SSDI) is an entitlement program for disabled people who have worked for at least 10 years. There is no income or asset limit to receive SSDI. The monthly income payment from SSDI is based on the recipient’s contributions to Social Security over his or her lifetime, and is available to medically qualified persons. Anyone receiving SSDI can receive Medicare after a 24 month waiting period. Medicare pays for doctors, hospitals, and other medical expenses, including 100 days of nursing home care and Part D prescription drug benefits for SSDI recipients of any age. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a welfare program for people who receive up to $674 income per month (in 2009). To receive SSI, one must have assets less than $2,000. Anyone receiving SSI is also eligible for Medicaid (Medical Assistance) which helps to pay for medical bills and long term nursing home care for persons over age 65.
