If they worked, some people eligible for Social Security disability benefits (SSDI) may also qualify to receive a small amount of SSI (Supplemental Security Income). When you’re applying for both benefits, you are making what’s called a concurrent claim. SSI claims are dealt with in precisely the same way an SSDI claim is handled. Both programs use the same definition of disability and an identical evaluation process. You may be able to collect SSI and SSDI at the same time if you receive only a small monthly SSDI payment. This can happen if you haven’t worked much in the last decade, or if you’ve worked at part-time or low-wage jobs. An experienced disability attorney can help you obtain either or both benefits.
At the present time (early 2014), to qualify for SSI in addition to SSDI, your unearned monthly income must be less than $710; however, the limit is higher in some states, and if you work and earn any money, a different limit applies.
If you are eligible for SSI, and you also worked long enough to qualify for SSDI, you may be able to receive both benefits. However, your monthly SSDI payment must be included when calculating your eligibility for SSI; your SSDI payment may be high enough to disqualify you from SSI. Only if your SSDI benefit is less than $710 per month can you receive both SSI and SSDI benefits. If you receive a low monthly SSDI benefit, a monthly SSI payment will increase your income to $710 per month. SSI recipients are eligible for Medicaid alone, but two years after your SSDI eligibility begins, you become eligible for Medicare as well.
If you haven’t yet applied, if your disability application was denied, or if you are at any stage of the application process, seek the counsel of an experienced disability attorney who can help you understand how Social Security makes decisions about disabilities. A good Social Security disability lawyer can also help you gather any evidence or witnesses you may need to obtain your benefits. It can be a lengthy procedure; get started by contacting an experienced Social Security disability attorney as quickly as possible.