What If I Don’t Get Enough Money Under SSDI or SSI?

If your SSDI or SSI payments are not enough, you have limited options while receiving these benefits

SSDI

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) payments are based on your work history and what you paid into the system. The complex formula in determining the amount you receive per month for SSDI is generally non-negotiable, unless Social Security has incorrect information regarding your work history and earnings. The severity of your disability does not impact your payments, and as long as your continue to be disabled under Social Security’s rules, the amount you receive in SSDI payments will not change.

Your assets and resources are not taken into consideration with an SSDI claim. You can receive additional “unearned” income, including VA benefits, child support, alimony, or pension, without influencing your monthly SSDI payments. However, if you want or need to work while receiving SSDI payments, certain rules apply.
For information regarding working while receiving SSDI benefits, click here.

SSI

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a needs-based program offering a set monthly payment- the Federal Benefit Rate (FBR). For 2015, eligible individuals receive $733 per month and eligible couples receive $1,100 per month. This amount can be supplemented, depending on what state you live in. This amount can also be reduced, depending upon any additional income (in-cash or in-kind) you receive.
For information regarding working while receiving SSI benefits, click here.

Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS)

In order to help disability recipients earn additional income and potentially return to work, SSA has created the Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS) program. PASS is designed to help disability recipients save money or potentially receive additional benefits in order to pursue a work-related goal and ultimately end their SSDI or SSI payments. The program requires an application including detailed information about how you will use this money to pay educational expenses, start a business, or receive vocational training. Specific details including a goal with the necessary steps and time frame for achieving your goal, cost estimates, and items or services needed to reach this goal are required. To apply for the PASS program, contact your local Social Security office.

For help with questions about your disability benefit amount, call us now. We are standing by to help you.

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