SSDI & SSI
Social Security disability benefits you may qualify for in addition to VA compensation.
SSDI vs. SSI Comparison
| Feature | SSDI | SSI |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | Social Security Disability Insurance | Supplemental Security Income |
| Based On | Work history / payroll taxes | Financial need (low income/assets) |
| Requires Work Credits | Yes | No |
| Income/Asset Limits | No | Yes (strict limits) |
| Monthly Amount (2024) | Avg. ~$1,537 (varies) | Max ~$943 individual |
| Medicare Eligibility | Yes (after 24-month wait) | Medicaid (immediate in most states) |
| Can Receive with VA Comp? | Yes — no offset | VA comp may reduce SSI payment |
Full Name
SSDI
Social Security Disability Insurance
SSI
Supplemental Security Income
Based On
SSDI
Work history / payroll taxes
SSI
Financial need (low income/assets)
Requires Work Credits
SSDI
Yes
SSI
No
Income/Asset Limits
SSDI
No
SSI
Yes (strict limits)
Monthly Amount (2024)
SSDI
Avg. ~$1,537 (varies)
SSI
Max ~$943 individual
Medicare Eligibility
SSDI
Yes (after 24-month wait)
SSI
Medicaid (immediate in most states)
Can Receive with VA Comp?
SSDI
Yes — no offset
SSI
VA comp may reduce SSI payment
Key Point: VA disability compensation does not reduce SSDI payments. However, VA compensation may reduce SSI payments because SSI is needs-based. You can receive both VA compensation and SSDI simultaneously.
How to Apply
Check Eligibility
Visit SSA.gov to verify you meet the basic requirements for SSDI, SSI, or both.
Gather Documentation
Collect medical records, work history, VA rating decision, and treatment records.
Apply Online or In Person
Apply at ssa.gov/disability or call 1-800-772-1213 to schedule an appointment at your local SSA office.
Attend Consultative Exam (if required)
SSA may schedule a medical exam similar to a VA C&P exam.
Receive Decision
Initial decisions typically take 3–6 months. If denied, you can appeal through reconsideration, ALJ hearing, or Appeals Council.
Official Resources
SSA Disability Benefits
ssa.gov/disabilityApply for SSDI/SSI Online
ssa.gov/applyfordisabilityFind Your Local SSA Office
secure.ssa.gov/ICON/main.jspSSA Phone
1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778)
Tip: If you have a 100% VA disability rating (P&T — Permanent and Total), you may qualify for expedited processing of your SSDI application. Mention your VA rating when you apply.