Can I Be Eligible For SSI And Social Security Disability At The Same Time?Yes, you can be eligible for both SSI and SSD benefits at the same time. To explain, let's start by stating that the two disability programs that SSA, the Social Security Administration, administers are exclusive of each other. However, although the disability programs are separate and eligibility to one program does not mean you are entitled to the other, there are times when an individual can be entitled to drawing SSI and Social Security Disability simultaneously. Having said that, most disability beneficiaries are only entitled to one disability program at a time. Many Social Security Disability beneficiaries are actually eligible for SSI disability benefits for the first five months after the date they became disabled. The reason being: Social Security Disability beneficiaries are subject to a five-month waiting period for which Social Security Disability benefits are never paid. Since many Social Security Disability beneficiaries have no money or resources to speak of by the time they are eligible and approved for Social Security Disability (which may not be the case for several years after the initial application as a result of multiple denials and appeals, and, usually, a disability hearing held by a federal judge), they are able to meet the income and resource limits of the SSI disability program for those months. For most Social Security Disability beneficiaries, SSI benefits are terminated the month they become entitled to Social Security Disability benefits because Social Security Disability benefits are generally higher than the SSI monthly benefit amount. Although the vast majority of Social Security Disability beneficiaries become ineligible for SSI, some individuals remain eligible for SSI disability even though they are entitled to Social Security Disability benefits. This can only happen when a beneficiary's Social Security Disability benefit is lower than the SSI monthly benefit amount. When benefits are received from both the SSD and SSI programs, they are known as concurrent benefits. Keep in mind, of course, that for a person to receive concurrent benefits from both programs, they have to meet the requirements of both programs. This means, for most individuals, having to adhere to the asset requirements of SSI. SSI, since it is based on need, places a limit on countable assets at $2000 per single individual and $3000 for a married couple. Having assets above these limits would invalidate one's eligibility to receive SSI benefits. About the Author: Tim Moore is a former Social Security Disability Examiner in North Carolina, has been interviewed by the NY Times and the LA Times on the disability system, and is an Accredited Disability Representative (ADR) in North Carolina. For assistance on a disability application or Appeal in NC, click here. Most popular topics on SSDRC.com Social Security Disability in North Carolina Common Mistakes to avoid after being denied for Disability Tips to Prepare for Filing for Social Security Disability or SSI Advice to Win SSD and SSI Benefit Claims Social Security Disability SSI Questions What is the difference between Social Security Disability and SSI? How to get disability for depression Getting disability for fibromyalgia SSI disability for children with ADHD What is the Application Process for Social Security Disability and SSI? Social Security Disability SSI Exam tips More Social Security Disability SSI Questions What makes you eligible for Social Security Disability or SSI? Related pages: When does social security consider you eligible for disability benefits? Who is eligible for SSI Disability? Disability Criteria - Eligibility For Social Security and SSI Disability Can I Be Eligible For SSI And Social Security Disability At The Same Time? Social Security Disability and SSI Mental Claims and Criteria Can you apply for disability on the basis of multiple health problems? What makes a person eligible to receive disability benefits? Inability to Work and Eligibility for Social Security Disability and SSI Benefits What makes you eligible for Social Security Disability or SSI? If You Are Currently Working Are You Eligible To Receive Social Security Disability Benefits? Will Being A Veteran Affect Your Eligibility And Chances For Social Security Disability? Are SSD and SSI disability cases decided the same way in terms of Eligibility? Is the Medical Criteria to Get Social Security Disability or SSI Benefits hard? Criteria for how Social Security Disability is Awarded Social Security Disability SSI Criteria and the Evaluation Process Getting a Disability Lawyer in Pennsylvania If you apply for disability in Pennsylvania Will I qualify for disability Benefits in Pennsylvania? |
