Both programs require you to prove you are unable to work due to a medical disability. However, not everyone who is unable to work will be eligible for either of the two benefits. In addition to proving your inability to work, you must also prove other eligibility requirements. For SSD benefits, your SSDI attorney must have worked for a sufficient time period in order to be eligible. Your condition also must have become disabling within a set period of time after you stopped working.
Eligibility for SSI benefits requires an individual have very little or no income and very little assets. Your spouse’s income or assets will also be counted for eligibility purposes.