What is the difference between Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?

The primary difference between SSI and retirement or SSDI is that the former needs tax payments, while the latter does not.

Additionally, a specific quantity of labor credits is needed to qualify for SSDI or retirement payments. For Supplemental Security Income, however, no.

Keep in mind that you need to be at least 62 years old to be eligible.

For Social Security Disability Insurance, you might need fewer work credits if you have a qualifying condition that keeps you from working for more than a year.

Who are SSI benefits for?

Adults and children who meet the eligibility requirements can receive Supplemental Security Income. Your child can be eligible for monthly benefit payments if they have a qualifying disability.

The Supplemental Security Income program may pay out money to adults if:

• are at least 65 years old
• are blind
• have a qualifying disability

Remember that the money for these benefits comes from the taxes that current employees pay each month. On the other hand, federal funds support the SSI program.

Are SSI and Social Security amounts the same?

Social Security and Supplemental Security Income have different maximum payment levels. After the rise, pensioners can really earn the highest Social Security benefit payments, reaching up to $4,873 in 2024 and $5,108 in 2025.

The maximum monthly benefit for recipients of Supplemental Security Income is $943 for individuals and $1,415 for qualified married couples.

Americans with modest incomes receive SSI benefits as a supplement. The average payment for Supplemental Security Income participants is $697, while the average payment for retirees is $1,927. SSI is therefore much lower.

People who have paid enough taxes are eligible to receive Social Security benefits. Therefore, some workers may qualify for both Social Security and Supplemental Security Income if the agency’s monthly payment is insufficient.

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