Dealing with the aftermath of a newfound disability and being unable to work often require a brutal adjustment period. Few things can be as frustrating as having to completely change your life due to circumstances that are out of your control. You do have options for financial relief, however, such as Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. There are also Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. Many people ask, “Can you receive SSI and SSDI at the same time?”
Can You Receive SSI and SSDI at the Same Time?
Yes, some people can receive both SSI benefits and SSDI benefits at the same time. According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), this is called “concurrent benefits.” If you want to learn more about concurrent benefits and whether you may qualify for them yourself, you should consider reaching out to an Elk Grove SSDI attorney for more information. Not everyone is eligible for both programs. If you are, there are a few important issues to consider, such as:
- Eligibility Criteria: Each program has its own set of criteria that you must qualify for to be eligible for SSDI benefits, SSI benefits, or both. SSI is fairly limited, as it is a needs-based program intended for low-income individuals with minimal resources. SSDI largely applies if you are disabled and cannot work. If you are approved by both programs, you can accept both.
- Benefit Reduction: One important thing to consider is that SSDI benefits may be considered countable income when applying for SSI benefits. Therefore, your SSI benefits may be reduced by the same amount as your SSDI benefits. The total amount you receive will likely be less than what you would get from each program separately.
Applying for SSI Benefits
The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program is intended for those who have little income and few resources. These people are usually disabled, elderly, or both. When applying, certain forms of income may not be considered as part of your qualifying income, such as:
- The first $20 of your monthly income
- Any income from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which was formerly referred to as “food stamps”
- Any assistance you may already receive from nonprofit organizations
- Scholarships if you are a student
If you are married, your spouse’s income and resources are considered. If you are under 18 years old, part of your parents’ income will likely count against you. If you are a sponsored noncitizen, then your sponsor’s income and resources may be a factor.
Applying for SSDI Benefits
It is vital that you apply for SSDI benefits as soon as you can. You may want to consider applying as soon as you learn of your disability and know whether you can keep working. There is always a large number of other applicants. If you want your benefits promptly, you will need to start the application process as quickly as possible. SSDI benefits generally have a waiting period of five months, so your payments may not begin until the sixth month of your disability.
If your claim is ultimately approved, you will be given SSI benefits for the first month to keep you financially stable until your SSDI benefits are ready to be processed. It is recommended that you reach out to an experienced SSDI lawyer to help you apply, as they understand the laws and rules that affect the SSA’s decisions. However, if you wish to do so on your own, you can apply online.
FAQs
Q: How Can I Get SSI and SSDI at the Same Time?
A: For you to receive both SSI and SSDI benefits at the same time, you need to meet the established criteria for both programs. For SSI, you must have limited income and resources. For SSDI, you will need to have paid into your Social Security and been in the workforce long enough to qualify. To qualify for either program, you must be disabled and unable to work.
Q: Which Pays More, SSI or SSDI?
A: Generally, SSDI benefits tend to pay more than SSI benefits. Ultimately, it really depends on the individual applying for these programs and what their basic needs are. Each program provides enough compensation to help those who need immediate financial relief. If you are in need of either or wish to pursue both programs, it is recommended that you reach out to an SSDI lawyer for assistance with your case.
Q: Can You Get Back Pay for Both SSDI and SSI Benefits?
A: Yes, you can receive back pay for both SSDI and SSI benefits. For SSDI benefits, back pay tends to cover the time between the filing of the application and the day when the SSA approves it. For SSI benefits, back pay tends to cover the month after you filed the application, so long as you met the eligibility requirements on the day you filed. If you are receiving both sets of benefits, the SSDI benefits may be subtracted from the SSI benefits.
Q: Can You Collect SSI and Regular Social Security at the Same Time?
A: Yes, it is possible to collect SSI benefits and standard Social Security benefits at the same time. There are people who qualify for both programs. In fact, the SSI application can double as an application for Social Security. It is important that you report any changes to your income or living situation while you are receiving SSI benefits. For more information, you may want to consider reaching out to the SSA or consulting a Social Security lawyer.
Contact an Experienced SSDI Lawyer Today
When you are in a tough situation and need immediate financial relief following a disability, you may want to apply for as many programs as you might qualify for. These can include SSDI and SSI benefits. You may qualify for both and could receive benefits from each. To make sure your applications are filled out correctly, you should reach out to an experienced SSDI lawyer.
Gade & Parekh, LLP, can assist with your application to make it as effective as possible. Contact our firm to schedule a consultation today.
