In terms of establishing eligibility to receive disability benefits, there is no practical difference between social security disability and ssi.

In other words, whether or not a disability claimant has filed for social security disability (aka ssdi or ssd) or supplemental security income will have no impact on how their claim is processed. In either case, an application will be taken, medical records will be gathered and evaluated, and a determination regarding eligibility will be made.

The substantial difference between social security disability and ssi, however, is simply the fact that social security disability is available to wage earners who have accumulated a sufficient number of work credits, while ssi disability benefits may be available to individuals who have either never worked or who have earned an insufficient number of work credits to qualify for ssd.

I am sorry I am still really confused maybe I am stupid..

My situation is this 5 months ago I had a manic state at work and I had to quit work went into the hospital and have been in and out of the hospital 2 times since then. I have tried to hold 3/4 different jobs and I can not hold the jobs. I currently live with my parents. They are supporting me right now. Is SSI something that I can apply for till SSDI comes through? Sorry the way they word things online is not very straight forward.
--Nick

Contact Allsup. I think that you have had to have been not working for 5-6 months before you can apply. SSDI is social security disability income and SSI is social security income. If you have never worked, then you cannot apply for SSDI. Allsup will guide you through the process. They are helping me. If your doctor has said that you will not be able to work for at least a year, then you should be able to get it. Contact Allsup though. They are great to work with, will answer any question you have, and do the work. They only get paid when you collect, and they only take a fee from your back pay.

Well I would like to try it myself first. I have worked the past 7 years straight. So I am sure I can apply for SSDI. But what is SSI? Should I apply for SSI first? Does it come quick?

My two adult children receive SSI. We applied 12 years ago and it was a simple process taken care of in the Social Security office. The benefit amounts are much lower on SSI (it's considered supplemental income) but recipients get medicare so it's not a bad plan. To qualify for SSI it's not necessary to have any income history.

I was on SSD years ago and I could live on my benefits. Yes, contact Allsup or go into your local
Social Security office.

ssd i think is when u was working and got hurt and couldn't go back to work ssi is when when u have a disability i have ssi

*scratching head*
I feel stupid!!
damnit!

You're not stupid. It is just a confusing and complicated thing which is why I suggested Allsup because it is important to have someone who understands the jargon and process. There is a mountain of paperwork and forms. Allsup does everything from handling the paperwork to follow up. Plus, you get trained professionals who will work hard to make sure that you get the benefits you deserve.