What is SSI Disability Pay Based On?

Social Security manages two disability programs: Social Security disability and Supplemental Security Income disability. Social Security disability is based upon an insured status that is earned through yearly earnings reported by the Internal Revenue Service. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) disability, on the other hand, is not based upon an individual's insured status; rather it is based upon need.

SSI disability claimants must go through the same disability medical determination process as Social Security disability claimants. The only difference is that individuals who only qualify for disability under SSI will be bound to a yearly benefit amount that is determined by Social Security.

Additionally, individuals who are receiving SSI disability may have their benefit affected by their living arrangements, income, and resources. For example, if an individual is living with someone, but not paying his or her share of the household expenses, their SSI disability pay may be less than the full SSI yearly disability benefit amount. If an individual has income (work, pension, disability benefit, etc) or if they have a friend or family member paying their bills, their SSI disability pay will be affected.

Because SSI disability pay is based upon need, there are so many events that can have an effect upon an individual’s monthly disability pay. However, generally speaking, an individual’s living arrangements and income have the largest effect upon SSI disability pay.



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