SSDI and SSI are both Social Security disability programs, but they work very differently. Understanding the difference helps you know what you qualify for and how to manage your benefits.
In this article, we'll cover:
- SSDI basics
- SSI basics
- Key differences at a glance
- Can you receive both?
1. SSDI Basics
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is an earned benefit based on your work history.
Who qualifies:
- You've worked and paid Social Security taxes
- You have enough work credits (varies by age)
- You meet SSA's definition of disability
How payments are calculated:
- Based on your lifetime earnings
- Average benefit: Around $1,500/month
- Maximum benefit: Over $3,800/month (2026)
Key features:
- No asset or income limits
- Medicare eligibility after 24 months
- Dependents may qualify for benefits too
- Can work within SGA limits ($1,550/month in 2026)
2. SSI Basics
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a needs-based program for people with limited income and resources.
Who qualifies:
- You're disabled, blind, or 65+
- You have limited income
- You have limited resources ($2,000 individual, $3,000 couple)
- You're a U.S. citizen or qualifying non-citizen
How payments are calculated:
- Federal benefit rate: $967/month individual (2026)
- State supplements may add more
- Reduced by countable income
Key features:
- Strict resource limits apply
- Medicaid eligibility in most states
- No work history required
- Income reduces benefit amount
3. Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | SSDI | SSI | |---------|------|-----| | Based on | Work history | Financial need | | Work credits required | Yes | No | | Asset limits | None | $2,000/$3,000 | | Income limits | SGA only | Yes, affects payment | | Healthcare | Medicare (after 24 mo) | Medicaid | | Average payment | ~$1,500 | ~$698 | | Dependent benefits | Yes | No |
4. Can You Receive Both?
Yes—this is called "concurrent benefits."
When it happens:
- You qualify for SSDI but your payment is low
- Your SSDI is below the SSI federal benefit rate
- You meet SSI's resource and income requirements
How it works:
- SSDI pays first
- SSI tops up to the full SSI amount
- Total can't exceed the SSI limit
Example:
- SSDI pays $400/month
- SSI federal rate is $967/month
- SSI pays the difference: $567/month
- Total: $967/month
Important: If you receive concurrent benefits, you're still subject to SSI's resource limits. Keep your countable resources under $2,000.
5. How Purple Helps with Either Program
Whether you're on SSDI, SSI, or both, Purple is designed for you:
For SSI recipients:
- Balance tracking for $2,000 limit
- Alerts when approaching the limit
- ABLE account integration for extra savings
For SSDI recipients:
- Early direct deposit up to 4 days
- No fees eating into your benefits
- Simple account management
For concurrent recipients:
- Track both payments in one place
- Stay compliant with SSI rules
- Manage your benefits confidently