Chicago SSDI Lawyers

Illinois SSI Attorneys

The Social Security Administration is responsible for two federal insurance programs provided to disabled persons – Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability (SSD or SSDI).

Supplemental Security Income

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a needs-based program that provides a source of income to disabled persons with limited income and resources. The income limitations vary by geographic location, but generally income includes money that earned from employment, as well as Social Security benefits, pensions, alimony, child support, interest and room and board provided on a regular basis. Certain income is excluded from the income determination, however, including some work expenses for blind or disabled persons. SSI laws limit the amount of assets you may own to $2,000 (or $3,000 in the case of a married couple if both receive SSI). Certain property is excluded when determining the value of your assets.

Social Security Disability

Social Security Disability (SSD or SSDI) is basically an insurance program that is funded by an individual’s payroll taxes. Unlike Supplemental Security Income (SSI), SSDI does not require an applicant to satisfy certain financial requirements, but rather, a person must show that:

• They have a physical or mental medical condition that prevents him or her from engaging in “substantial gainful activity” and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death;
• He or she is under the age of 65; and
• He or she has earned enough “work credits” from previous employment.

In order to receive Social Security Disability Insurance, your disability must be a total disability that is expected to last at least one year or result in death. You will not receive benefits for partial or short-term disability that is expected to last less than one year.

Experience with SSI and SSDI

The skilled Chicago SSI and SSDI attorneys at Ankin Law have considerable experience helping clients pursue both SSI and SSDI claims. Contact us to schedule a free consultation to learn more about the differences between SSI and SSDI. We will help you determine whether you are eligible for SSI and/or SSDI and help your file an application for disability benefits.