Are you trying to figure out how your assets could affect your Social Security disability benefits? It’s a reasonable thing to wonder about. However, it’s important to know that not all disability benefits depend on your available assets.
For example, your Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits are determined by your work credits and previous contributions to the Social Security system. Your assets don’t matter when you apply for SSDI. However, if you’re applying for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, the scenario changes. SSI is a needs-based program, which means your assets must fall below a certain limit for you to qualify.
Figuring out these crucial differences can be challenging, but you don’t have to go through this process alone. The Indiana Social Security disability lawyers at Hankey Marks & Crider can help you understand the complex rules regarding your potential disability benefits. Social Security disability claims are a core part of our practice, and we have the knowledge and in-depth experience you need.
SSDI vs. SSI: Essential Differences
In the United States, the Social Security Administration oversees two primary benefits programs for people with disabilities. The first is the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program, and the second is the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program. Let’s break down how these two programs are similar and the essential differences between them:
SSDI:
The SSDI program is what most people think of when discussing Social Security disability benefits. SSDI supports individuals who have a long-term or terminal disability that keeps them from working. To qualify, applicants must meet the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability and have accumulated enough work credits. Applicants earn credits based on paying taxes on their yearly income, with up to four credits available each year. Typically, eligibility requires 40 credits, and applicants must have earned half of their credits in the last 10 years. Younger workers may qualify with fewer credits in certain circumstances. SSDI benefits also extend to family members of the disabled worker, providing broader financial assistance.
SSI:
The SSI program focuses on aiding children and adults facing significant financial challenges due to disability. Unlike SSDI, SSI does not rely on an individual’s work history. Instead, eligibility is based on financial need. This program is also available to individuals over 65 without disabilities if they meet specific financial thresholds. SSI eligibility is determined by asset limits and income, making it a critical resource for those with limited financial means.
While both SSDI and SSI aim to support those in need, SSI serves as a safety net for those without sufficient work history or those facing immediate financial hardship.
Do Your Assets Affect Your Eligibility for SSDI Benefits?
No, your assets do not affect whether you qualify for SSDI benefits. All that matters is whether you have earned enough work credits and if you meet the SSA’s definition of disability. Typically, that means having a qualifying medical condition that has already lasted 12 months, is expected to last 12 months, or is fatal. If you meet these requirements, you likely qualify for benefits. Applying for SSDI benefits is an arduous, complex process, so it’s a good idea to work with a knowledgeable attorney.
Do Your Assets Affect Your Eligibility for SSI Benefits?
SSI benefits are a means-based program, so your income and assets play a significant role in whether you qualify. The most recent information from the SSA says that the income limit for a single adult applying for benefits is $1,971 per month. This limit increases for couples and families with children.
Your available assets aside from your income also determine whether you qualify for SSI benefits. The SSA says these benefits are primarily for individuals with less than $2,000 in assets or couples with less than $3,000. For individuals or couples applying for benefits for a child, these limits increase by $2,000 (to $4,000 and $5,000, respectively).
Finally, you must have a qualifying disability to qualify for SSI benefits. However, people who are 65 and older can qualify for SSI without a disability.
How Do Your Assets Affect Eligibility for SSI?
First of all, if your income and assets exceed the threshold for SSI benefits, you won’t receive anything. If your income and assets fall below the threshold, the amount you receive depends on your financial resources. So, people with lower incomes will receive more in benefits than those with higher incomes and more assets. However, the formula for calculating SSI benefits is complicated. A lawyer can review your case and give you a better estimate of how much you could receive in SSI benefits.
Can You Receive SSDI and SSI Benefits at the Same Time?
It is possible to receive SSDI and SSI benefits simultaneously. However, qualifying for both programs at the same time is a challenge. If you have too much SSDI income, you’ll be disqualified from receiving SSI.
How Long Do Social Security Disability Benefits Last?
Both SSI and SSDI benefits are meant to provide help to those with long-term disabilities. If you qualify for benefits, they should last for however long your disability lasts, you exceed the assets or income threshold (for SSI) benefits, or you die from your illness. Theoretically, these benefits can provide a steady source of financial help for months or years. If you’re still receiving SSDI benefits when you turn 65, your benefits convert to regular Social Security payments. The amount doesn’t change.
Why You Need Our Indiana Social Security Disability Lawyers
Whether you’re applying for SSDI or SSI benefits, it’s essential to get help from a capable attorney. The paperwork and procedures involved in applying for both benefits are complicated, and a mistake at any step could derail your application. Our attorneys can take care of the paperwork for you, gather evidence to support your claim, and handle any appeals if the SSA rejects your initial application. Moreover, we can do all this while you focus on your medical treatment and spending time with your family.
The team at Hankey Marks & Crider wants to help you claim your rightful benefits so you can live more comfortably after a disabling injury or illness. Call us today at (317) 634-8565 or complete our contact form for a free consultation.