What is the primary distinction between Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?

The primary distinction between Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) lies in the basis upon which benefits are granted. Social Security is designed to provide benefits based on an individual's work history and the accumulation of work credits throughout their employment. This means that individuals must have a certain number of work credits, typically earned by working and paying Social Security taxes, to qualify for benefits, which can include retirement, disability, or survivors' benefits.

In contrast, SSI is a needs-based program that does not require recipients to have a work history. Instead, SSI provides financial assistance to those who are aged, blind, or disabled, and who meet specific income and resource criteria, regardless of their previous employment status. This program is specifically intended to help individuals who have limited income and resources, thus highlighting the critical distinction of financial need that underpins SSI.

In summary, Social Security is fundamentally linked to a person’s work and contributions to the system, whereas SSI is designed to support individuals based on their financial situation, ensuring that those in economic hardship can receive assistance.