SSI vs. DIB – Understanding Benefit Amounts

The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers two programs for disabled individuals in need of financial assistance: Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Disability Insurance Benefits (DIB).

Both SSI and DBI provide cash benefits to people who are unable to work, but the amounts are not the same. But how much will you actually receive if the SSA approves your disability claim?

SSI and DIB benefit amounts for 2019

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

SSI is a needs-based program for designed to help low-income individuals who cannot work due to disability.

Those who are approved for SSI receive the federal benefit rate, which changes when the cost of living increases. For 2019, the maximum monthly payment amount is $771 for a single person and $1,157 for a disabled individual with an eligible spouse.

When Supplemental Security Income benefits are awarded, so are Medicaid benefits in most states. So, in addition to cash assistance, SSI usually comes with immediate Medicaid health coverage.

Disability Insurance Benefits (DIB)

Also known as Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), DIB is designed to provide financial assistance to individuals who have paid sufficient Social Security taxes from previous work.

With Disability Insurance Benefits, the amount an individual receives varies, as it is based upon past earnings. In 2019, the average monthly cash payment is $1,234, while the maximum cash benefit for those approved for DIB is $2,861.

When DIB is awarded, other members of the individual’s family may be eligible for benefits. On average, a disabled individual who is married and has one or more children receives $2,130 per month.

Those who qualify for DIB receive Medicare benefits two years after they begin receiving disability benefits. For claims that take a long time, Medicare coverage starts two years from the date the DIB benefits should have started.

Can You Receive SSI and DIB Benefits?

Some individuals may receive concurrent benefits or cash assistance through both the Supplemental Security Insurance and Disability Insurance Benefits programs. This occurs when a disabled person’s past earnings qualify them for a DIB payment that is lower than the federal benefit rate.

So, in 2019, those who are approved for DIB of less than $771, Supplemental Security Income makes up the difference. When applying for disability, it is not necessary to request assistance through both programs, as consideration for concurrent benefits is an automatic part of the Social Security Disability process.

Do you qualify for Supplemental Security Income or Disability Insurance Benefits? Are you ready to apply? For expert help with no upfront cost, turn to Mountain West Disability.

Based in Murray, Utah, Mountain West Disability has a team of highly experienced Social Security Disability advocates who can handle every aspect of your claim. Our qualified legal professionals and case managers provide a full range of services, and we only collect a fee – set by the Social Security Administration — upon the approval of your disability claim.

For a free evaluation and answers to your questions about Supplemental Security Income and Disability Insurance Benefits, contact Mountain West Disability today.