Q. What is the Difference Between Social Security and Supplemental Security Income?

A. Both Social Security Disability (SSD) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are programs administered by the Social Security Administration. Both SSD and SSI have a common fundamental requirement for coverage: you must be unable to work at any job for a continuous period of twelve (12) months or longer. However, there are distinct differences between the two programs. SSD benefits are based on the taxes you have contributed to the system before the onset of your disability, while SSI benefits are determined by financial need.