Experiencing a disability that interferes with your ability to work can create serious financial challenges and impact nearly every aspect of your life. Fortunately, two key federal programs exist to help support individuals in this situation: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). While both programs are overseen by the Social Security Administration (SSA) and aim to assist people with disabilities, they differ in important ways, including eligibility rules and the benefits they provide. If you are a resident of Arkansas and living with a disabling condition, understanding how these programs work can be critical to securing financial assistance. Toward that end, the attorneys at Wilcox Attorneys, PA offer insight into what you should know about SSDI and SSI.
Overview of SSDI and SSI
Both SSDI and SSI are designed to provide monthly financial support to individuals who are unable to maintain substantial employment because of a qualifying disability. To be eligible for either program, you must meet the SSA’s definition of disability, which includes:
- A physical or mental condition that prevents you from performing the work you previously did.
- A medical condition that makes it difficult or impossible to adjust to other types of work.
- A condition expected to last for at least one year or result in death.
These criteria apply to both SSDI and SSI applicants, but the similarities largely end there. The road to approval and the types of benefits available vary significantly between the two programs.
Key Differences between SSDI and SSI
The main differences between SSDI and SSI involve the way eligibility is determined and how benefits are calculated.
For SSDI, your eligibility depends primarily on your work history. When you work and pay into the Social Security system through payroll taxes, you earn what are known as “work credits.” In 2025, you earn one credit for each $1,810 in earnings, up to four credits per year. Most adults need 40 credits to qualify for SSDI, 20 of which must have been earned in the 10 years before the disability began. Younger workers, though, may qualify with fewer credits depending on their age at the time of disability.
In contrast, SSI is a needs-based program intended for individuals who have limited income and few resources, regardless of whether they have ever worked. To qualify for SSI in 2025, your countable resources must not exceed $2,000 for an individual or $3,000 for a married couple. Not all assets count toward this limit; for example, your home and basic personal belongings are typically excluded.
The benefits from each program also differ significantly. SSDI benefits are based on your average lifetime earnings before your disability. In 2025, the maximum SSDI benefit is $4,018 per month, though the average monthly payment is around $1,580. Once you have received SSDI benefits for 24 months, you will become eligible for Medicare. Your dependents—such as a spouse, former spouse, or child—may also be eligible for benefits based on your SSDI record.
SSI benefits are more modest. In 2025, the maximum federal SSI benefit is $967 per month for individuals and $1,450 for couples. States may offer supplemental benefits, and in Arkansas, recipients are often eligible for Medicaid automatically. Some family members, such as minor children or grandchildren in your care, may also receive benefits depending on the circumstances.
Concurrent Benefits: When You May Qualify for Both
In some cases, an individual may qualify for both SSDI and SSI benefits. This is known as “concurrent benefits” and usually applies when a person receives a small SSDI benefit due to a limited work history and also meets the strict financial requirements for SSI. Receiving benefits from both programs can increase the total monthly support you receive and may help with basic expenses.
Applying for either SSDI or SSI can be a lengthy and complicated process. Many initial claims are denied, which can delay access to much-needed financial support. To improve your chances of approval, be thorough and honest when completing application forms and providing detailed medical documentation. Because of the complexity of the process, many applicants benefit from working with an attorney who is familiar with the SSA’s rules and procedures. An experienced attorney can help you avoid common mistakes, submit a stronger initial application, and represent you in appeals if necessary.
Do You Have Questions about SSDI or SSI in Arkansas?
For additional information, please sign up for one of our FREE estate planning seminars. If you need assistance incorporating incapacity planning into your Arkansas estate plan, contact the experienced Washington County, Fayetteville, Springdale, Rogers, Bentonville, and Northwest Arkansas estate planning attorneys at Wilcox Attorneys, PA by calling 479-443-0062 to schedule your appointment today.
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