Can You Receive SSI or SSDI?

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has implemented two different disability benefits programs in order to meet the needs of as many Americans as possible. While the regulations and requirements for each program are vastly different, it is possible for some applicants to qualify for both Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).

If you are wondering if you can get SSI and SSDI, we have outlined the process in this article. While it is uncommon to qualify for both, some circumstances allow for individuals to qualify for both SSI and SSDI.

This dual qualification can occur if you are currently receiving a low monthly payment of SSDI which can be supplemented with SSI. However, if you only qualify for SSI, it is highly unlikely you will be able to qualify for SSDI as well.

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SSDI Qualifications for Individuals with Disability

Social Security Disability Insurance is funded through payroll taxes. You are considered an insured worker if Social Security contributions have been deducted from your paycheck for a specific number of years.

The SSA also utilizes your wages and compensation to fairly calculate your unique monthly benefit payment amount. However, SSDI is not a program that is dependent on your current income level.

To summarize, these are the key points that impact SSDI amount and qualifications:

• You must have acquired enough work credits in the past 10 years.
• Your wages will impact your monthly allowance.
• The age at which you become disabled impacts your payment amount.
• You must be considered disabled by SSA guidelines.

SSI Qualifications for Individuals with Disability

Supplemental Security Income varies greatly from the SSDI program in both requirements and payment calculation.

SSI is a need-based Social Security program. This means it does not take into account work history, but rather SSI evaluates your access to income and resources.

The SSI unearned income limit is set at approximately $710 per month, with an asset limit of $2,000 for individuals and $3,000 for married couples.

This means if your income and assets are too high, then you will not qualify for SSI benefits. However, you may still qualify for the SSDI benefits we outlined above if you meet the work credit criteria.

To summarize, the SSI key qualifications include:

• You must earn LESS THAN $710 per month.
• Your assets must not exceed $2,000 for individuals or $3,000 for married couples.

Receiving Both SSDI and SSI

If you are currently receiving SSDI but it is a low monthly allowance due to work history issues, you may find solace in knowing you could possibly qualify for additional income through SSI.

If you are unsure whether you qualify for either SSI or SSDI, you can reach out to a Social Security Disability advocate such as Disability Apply to find help on your journey to receiving Social Security Disability benefits.

Our helpful and knowledgeable team will walk through your specific situation, help you identify which program to apply for, see whether you could qualify for both programs, and provide expert support completing your application.

Get started by completing this free evaluation for assistance!