Kansas City SSDI Lawyer
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are two programs of the Social Security Administration (SSA) that help people who are unable to work because of disability.

The SSA rejects most claims.
Working with an experienced disability attorney can help you avoid mistakes during the application process that could lead to denials. For more information about filing a disability claim, talk to a Kansas City SSDI lawyer.
Are SSI and SSDI the Same?
Understanding the differences between SSI and SSDI can be challenging. While they are two different programs, people often speak about them together. SSI and SSDI have the same application process and disability requirements. SSI is based on financial need, while SSDI is an insurance program based on work history.
SSI is primarily for people who have not worked long enough to earn the minimum work credits needed for SSDI. While the work history is not necessary to qualify, SSI has income and asset restrictions.
You pay into the SSA trust fund through your FICA withholding on your paycheck. SSDI payments are linked to the amount of withholding and are usually greater than SSI benefits.
An experienced SSDI attorney in Kansas City can review a claim and help guide the applicant.
Types of Social Security Disability Benefits
Understanding how these two Social Security programs work is essential for anyone who hopes to secure disability benefits. A Kansas City attorney can help you secure either of these Social Security disability benefits.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
SSDI provides support for people who can no longer earn a living due to a disabling injury or illness. These benefits are paid from payroll tax receipts and are available to those with a sufficient work history. Maximum benefits are reserved for individuals with disabilities who have sufficient work history. SSDI is an insurance program.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
SSI eligibility is based on need rather than work history requirements. Anyone with earnings or assets above a certain amount will not qualify. The income limit is very low, meaning SSI benefits are intended for disabled people with few resources. SSI is a needs-based program.
Do You Qualify for SSDI?
Qualifying for SSDI benefits means meeting certain criteria. The SSA requires 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 calendar years.
Evaluating whether you are currently able to work is the issue in any disability claim. If you cannot perform your previous job, the SSA assesses whether you can do other types of work. The SSA considers you disabled if you cannot engage in Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA).
The SSA will consider the severity of your medical condition. A qualifying condition must be long-term—meaning it has persisted or is expected to persist for at least a year or result in death. The SSA has a list of impairments, but an impairment does not need to be listed to qualify. An SSDI lawyer in Kansas City can help to evaluate your condition and determine whether you are eligible.
Speak to a Kansas City SSDI Attorney Today
A Kansas City SSDI lawyer can guide you through the process. Schedule a consultation to get more information.
Partner with a Kansas City Social Security disability lawyer to maximize your chances of a favorable result. Call the diligent legal team at BurnettDriskill, Attorneys today to get started with your claim.
