Can You Receive SSDI and SSI at the Same Time?

Can I Qualify for SSI and SSDI Payments?

The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers two types of disability benefits: Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). SSI is needs-based, while SSDI payments are based on an individual’s work history.

Some individuals may qualify for both SSI payments and SSDI payments. The good news is that you can receive both types of payments simultaneously. You must meet the SSA’s definition of a disability, which is a physical or mental health condition that prevents you from doing most work for at least one year. You must also meet all other requirements for both SSI and SSDI.

Qualifying for both types of payments can be a good thing, but it could impact the amount of money you receive every month. To learn more about receiving SSI and SSDI benefits at the same time and to get help with your disability benefits applications, contact an experienced disability benefits attorney on our team.

Who Qualifies for SSI and SSDI Payments?

SSDI eligibility is based on an individual’s work history. Individuals must have at least 40 work credits, 20 of which were earned in the past ten years. Work credits are based on the amount of income you receive in a single year. Every person can earn up to four work credits per year.

SSI payments are based on an individual’s financial needs. Disabled individuals who do not have a steady income or financial resources can qualify for SSI payments. Financial resources include any assets you own, like stock portfolios and bank accounts. Homes and vehicles are typically not considered when determining SSI eligibility.

If your countable monthly income exceeds $943 per month ($1,415 per month for couples), you are not eligible for SSI payments. This income threshold is subject to change every year.

Some individuals who have worked recently and also are experiencing a lack of financial resources may qualify for both SSI and SSDI. For assistance with eligibility determinations, contact a member of our law office for more information.

Can SSDI Payments Impact My SSI Payment?

If you are eligible for SSDI payments, Social Security will count those monthly payments when considering your eligibility for SSI payments. The SSA exempts $20 per month from your SSDI payments when making this consideration.

If you receive an SSDI payment that is more than $963 per month, you do not qualify for SSI. If you receive less than that, you may still qualify for SSI, but your SSI payments will be reduced.

For instance, if you receive an SSDI payment of $400 per month, Social Security will count your monthly income as $380. You will receive $400 per month in SSDI plus $563 in SSI ($943 minus $380).

What Are the Benefits of Receiving SSI and SSDI?

Even if you qualify for both SSI and SSDI, your monthly payments are still capped by the SSI maximum. However, there are benefits to receiving both monthly payments.

Below are some of the main benefits of getting SSI and SSDI payments:

• Using SSI as short-term disability payments. If you qualify for a low SSDI benefit, you can use SSI to supplement your income until you can go back to work.
• Avoiding the SSDI waiting period. SSDI payments do not start until six months after your application is approved. SSI payments do not have this waiting period.
• Using Medicaid for healthcare costs. SSDI recipients qualify for Medicare after 24 months. SSI recipients are eligible for Medicaid automatically, which can cover your healthcare expenses.

Can a Disability Attorney Help Me?

Receiving disability benefits can mean the difference between supporting yourself and your family and being unable to pay your bills. If you qualify for both SSI and SSDI, understanding the benefits and drawbacks of your unique situation is essential. In some cases, it may be more beneficial to choose one or the other instead of splitting your payments.

At Roeschke Law, we have years of experience helping clients with their disability benefits. Whether you need help deciding what to apply for or assistance with the application process, our team is here to help. Contact us today for more information by calling 480-999-4740.