Every single day, I get emails from readers that say things like this: “My wife and I are getting SSI. And we would like to ask you some questions.” Or this: “My SSI check is $2,140 per month. My wife’s SSI check is $1,800. Can she get any of my SSI?” You know the uncomfortable feeling you get when someone scratches their fingernails on a chalkboard? Well, that’s how I feel when I get emails like this. Why does this bother me so? Because these folks are not getting SSI. They are getting Social Security benefits. And there is a HUGE difference, which I will explain. Most people know what Social Security is. You work. You pay taxes. And then, when you retire or become disabled, you start getting Social Security checks based on what you paid into the system. Or if you die, your widow, widower, or minor children …