The differences between SSDI and SSI in Michigan are significant, and a trusted lawyer could help determine your eligibility. SSDI refers to Social Security Disability Insurance, while SSI refers to Supplemental Security Income. SSDI is an insurance benefit that is based on the recipient’s contributions to Social Security throughout their work history. SSI, on the other hand, is a federal program that is based on financial need and requires no work history. However, the recipient’s disability initiates both benefit programs.
If you have questions or concerns regarding SSDI or SSI, you may benefit from professional legal guidance. Our experienced Social Security benefits attorneys at Thurswell Law could help you understand your rights.
What is Social Security Disability Insurance?
SSDI in Michigan differs from SSI in that it is funded by the Social Security taxes that employees and their employers pay into the system. This form of insurance coverage pays out benefits to those who can no longer work as a result of a medical condition that is expected to cause death or to keep them out of work for at least a year.
Eligibility for Certain Family Members
Under the right circumstances and based on the disabled person’s work history, eligibility could also extend to specific family members. For example, if you are entitled to SSDI benefits, the following relatives may be entitled as well:
- Your spouse, if they are at least 62 years old
- Your spouse, regardless of age, if they care for a shared child who is not yet 16 years old or who is disabled
- Your unmarried minor children
- Your unmarried adult child if they suffered a disability before turning 22 years old
Our team could help you determine if you have any relatives who are eligible for SSDI.
Qualifying for SSDI Benefits
Qualifying for SSDI benefits is based on the disabled individual’s work credits, and the number required is determined by their age at the time they became disabled. The basic requirements include that the person seeking benefits must have at least 40 work credits and must have earned at least 20 of these in the 10 years prior to becoming disabled. In some cases, however, younger applicants can qualify with fewer work credits.
Our dedicated Social Security benefits lawyers at Thurswell Law could assess your eligibility and guide you through the legal process toward benefits.
Who is Eligible for Supplemental Security Income?
In Michigan, SSI is a combined federal and state benefit. The program provides monthly payments to those who have a qualifying disability, are at least 65 years old, or are blind and meet the strict income requirements.
SSI benefits are generally funded by taxes rather than by the Social Security taxes paid by employees and employers. Eligibility involves strict limits regarding income and resources. For those whose benefits are based on disability rather than age, the condition must be expected to result in death or to interfere with the recipient’s ability to work for at least a year. The guidelines are even more restrictive for recipients who are minors.
Ultimately, this program is designed to provide financial security to those with very limited resources. This involves addressing essential needs, such as food and housing.
Do not wait to discuss your claim with a knowledgeable Social Security benefits attorney. Our team at Thurswell Law in Michigan could help you understand how SSI differs from SSDI.
Call Our Michigan Attorneys for Help Differentiating Between SSDI and SSI
Our well-respected attorneys at Thurswell Law have been helping clients like you bring effective claims since 1968, and we welcome the opportunity to also serve you. The differences between SSDI and SSI in Michigan are significant, and obtaining the benefits you deserve could require skilled legal guidance. Our experience translates to excellent results, and we encourage you to reach out for more information by contacting us today.
N/a 
