Navigating Disability Benefits for Arthritis: SSDI vs. SSI Explained

Arthritis usually develops gradually, often beginning as morning stiffness or soreness at the end of the day. In time, these symptoms can make routine tasks more difficult, affecting your ability to stand or use your hands.

If arthritis makes working difficult or impossible, you may consider applying for disability benefits. Some people explore SSDI arthritis benefits after years of contributing through work; others seek to understand what support may exist. Whatever your circumstances, your search for information is a responsible step toward regaining stability.

This article aims to support your decision-making by clarifying whether your arthritis may qualify for disability benefits and by explaining the differences between Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

How Social Security Evaluates Arthritis

The Social Security Administration (SSA) does not award disability benefits solely on the basis of an arthritis diagnosis, even if your symptoms are severe. The process is not meant to question what you’re experiencing, but to ensure assistance is provided to those whose daily functioning meets the program’s specific standards.

What matters is how arthritis limits your ability to function at work. If it does not significantly affect your job performance, you may not meet the criteria for benefits. This can feel frustrating, but understanding the standards early can help you plan more confidently.

First, it may be helpful to check whether your situation generally fits the SSA’s medical threshold:

• Your arthritis has lasted or is expected to last at least 12 months.
• Pain, stiffness, or reduced mobility limit your ability to walk, stand, sit, use your hands, or lift objects.
• Symptoms interfere with your ability to maintain full-time employment.
• You are receiving medical treatment for your condition.
• Treatment may offer some relief, but symptoms persist.

If these points describe your experience, the next step is to figure out which disability benefit may provide meaningful support.

Two Different Paths: SSDI and SSI

If arthritis meets SSA standards, disability benefits generally fall under one of two programs: SSDI or SSI.

The main difference between them is not the severity of your arthritis, but your work history and financial circumstances. Your path through the system will depend on your unique background, not just your diagnosis.

Some people qualify for SSDI based on years of employment and Social Security tax contributions. Others may find that SSI, which supports individuals with limited income and resources, is a better fit, regardless of work history.

Getting clearer on this distinction helps explain why people facing similar challenges sometimes pursue different types of support.

Arthritis Claims That Fall Under SSDI

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is related to your work history. It is intended for people who have contributed through work and earned Social Security credits over time.

The SSA also considers whether your disability prevents you from engaging in what it calls Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA), in other words, earning enough through work to be financially self-supporting.

For 2026, earning more than $1,690 per month from wages or self-employment ($2,830 if legally blind) generally makes someone ineligible for SSDI, as they are considered capable of substantial gainful activity.

You may qualify for SSDI if you recognize yourself in the following situations:

• You worked steadily for several years and have a solid work record.
• You paid Social Security taxes and have enough work credits.
• Arthritis has made it difficult or impossible to continue working as you once did.
• Your disability began while you were still working or shortly after.
• You currently earn less than $1,690 per month, despite your best efforts to remain in the workforce.

In summary, SSDI is designed for those who have contributed through years of work, but whose arthritis now makes continued employment unfeasible under SSA guidelines.

Arthritis Claims That Fall Under SSI

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is needs-based and not tied to work history. It exists to support those with limited income and resources, regardless of their employment background. The medical standards are the same as SSDI; what differs is the financial component.

For 2026, the SSI rules generally consider someone eligible if both of the following are true:

1. Your income is low enough. While SSI does not use SGA, it does consider your income when determining eligibility and payment amount. The federal standard is $994/month for individuals and $1,491 for couples, but this is not a strict cutoff. Social Security reviews your income with certain exclusions, aiming to recognize your full financial picture.
2. Your available resources are limited. The SSA generally allows up to $2,000 in countable resources for an individual ($3,000 for a couple). Your home, one vehicle, and personal belongings are typically excluded, but cash, savings, and investments are counted.

SSI benefits apply if:

• Your income is low or inconsistent.
• You do not have significant savings or investments to fall back on.
• Your arthritis limits your ability to work full-time.
• You may have worked part-time, intermittently, or not at all.

SSI is for those whose arthritis limits work and whose finances are tight. The medical standard is the same as SSDI, but the focus is on current income and resources. Approaching this process with accurate information can help reduce unnecessary worry.

Moving Forward Without Guesswork

Arthritis can make work painful, unpredictable, or impossible. For many, the hardest part of it isn’t accepting that something is wrong, but figuring out where they fit within a system that feels complicated and unfamiliar.

Some people qualify for SSDI, others for SSI, and some may even be evaluated for both. Sorting this out early can help you avoid unnecessary frustration and move forward with greater assurance.

If arthritis has significantly affected your ability to work, consulting a disability attorney can help you understand your options. Reviewing your medical records, work history, and financial circumstances together can offer guidance and help you make informed decisions about the path ahead.