$9942026 max SSI, individual
$1,0292027 max SSI, individual
$2,000SSI resource limit, individual
24 monthsSSDI wait for Medicare
Side-by-side comparison
| SSDI | SSI | |
|---|---|---|
| Based on | Your work and payroll taxes | Financial need |
| Work history required | Yes. Work credits ($1,890 of earnings per credit in 2026, up to 4 per year) | No |
| Income and asset limits | No asset test, but earnings above the SGA limit ($1,690/mo in 2026) can disqualify you | Yes. Resources under $2,000 (individual) or $3,000 (couple); income reduces the payment |
| Payment amount | Based on your lifetime earnings. Average for disabled workers about $1,642 a month in 2026 | Federal rate of $994 (individual) or $1,491 (couple) in 2026; $1,029 and $1,544 in 2027. Some states add a supplement |
| Waiting period | Five full months before benefits begin | None |
| Health coverage | Medicare after 24 months of entitlement | Medicaid in most cases (rules vary by state) |
How SSI counts income
SSA generally ignores the first $20 a month of most income. For earnings, it also ignores the first $65 and then half of the rest, so working a little does not wipe out SSI. Free or reduced-cost housing or food from others can reduce your payment. A home and, usually, one vehicle do not count toward the resource limit.
Can you receive both?
Yes. If your SSDI payment is low enough, you can qualify for a partial SSI payment as well. These are called concurrent benefits. Both programs apply the same medical definition: a condition that prevents substantial work and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.
Which should you apply for? You do not have to choose. When you apply for disability at ssa.gov or at 1-800-772-1213, SSA checks whether you may qualify under SSDI, SSI, or both. If you have little work history, SSI may be the only option; if you have a long work record but limited income, you may qualify for both.
2027 changes: SSI rates rise 3.6% on December 31, 2026 for January 2027. SSI resource limits stay at $2,000 and $3,000, which have not changed in decades.