We are often asked about the differences between Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) when applying for disability benefits. Specifically, if you can get both SSI and SSDI back pay.
First, it’s worth noting that approval is contingent on meeting the requirements for each type of benefit. For example, SSI is awarded based on financial and resource-needs, whereas SSDI is centered on work credits.
As a disability representative, Disability Apply will work with you throughout the disability application process to help you obtain as many benefits as you are eligible for. We will attempt to get you both SSI and SSDI back pay if you are eligible for each type of benefit.
Ready to start the application process? Complete this form! There are no upfront costs to work with us. We only receive a fee directly from the Social Security Administration if you win your disability case – no out-of-pocket expense for you!
SSI and SSDI Back Pay Differences
Back pay is considered payments for the months between the date you applied for disability benefits and the date you were approved for benefits. There is also a key difference between SSI and SSDI back pay benefits:
SSI
- Back payments available
- No retroactive benefits available
- No interest on back pay
SSDI
- Back payments available
- Retroactive benefits available
- No interest on back pay
Retroactive benefits are paid for the months between when you became disabled and when you first applied for Social Security disability benefits.
To recap, there are three important points on the timeline that affect back pay:
- When You First Became Disabled
- When You Applied for Benefits
- When You Are Approved to Start Receiving Benefits
Receiving Back Pay for SSI and SSDI
If you are awarded both SSI and SSDI benefits, you may have to wait longer to receive your back pay than you would if you were receiving SSDI benefits alone.
This is due to the fact that SSI back pay benefits are for a shorter amount of time (the point of application to the point of approval) and are paid in increments. Comparatively, SSDI back payments can be paid in a lump sum and start to accrue up to twelve months prior to the initial application date (retroactive benefits), less a required five-month wait period.
To find out how much back pay you may be eligible to receive, utilize our Back Pay calculator for an estimate.
It’s also worth considering that your back pay benefits will be adjusted if you receive both SSI and SSDI, as SSI benefits are based on income and financial need.
Therefore, it’s possible that SSDI back pay allowances would be counted as income, which would then offset your SSI benefit amount. When you receive back pay, your SSI benefits will automatically be adjusted to consider this allowance as income.
How is this determined? The adjustment is calculated by treating the back pay as if it has been available to you throughout the entire disability period.
Contact Us For Additional Support on Back Pay
Every case is unique when attempting to get both SSI and SSDI back pay. That’s why we’re here to support you throughout the disability application process to help you receive as much in disability benefits as you are eligible.
First, though, we want to ensure that you are approved for benefits. You can increase your chances for approval by as much as 75 percent when you utilize a representative such as Disability Apply!
Fill out this form to find the support you need to be approved for Social Security Disability benefits and to receive the back pay you are owed.