Are you living with a disability in South Carolina? You may qualify to receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits at the same time. But understanding the complex rules surrounding disability benefits programs can be confusing. Talk to a seasoned SSD attorney at Land Parker Welch LLC today to learn how to obtain all the benefits you’re entitled to.
Call or contact us today for a free consultation.
Benefits Of Getting Both SSDI And SSI
If you worked a low-wage job, don’t have an established work history, or didn’t have an opportunity to establish a work history before you became disabled, then you may receive a low monthly SSDI payment. Receiving SSI benefits in addition to SSDI can help boost your income until you can return to work.
You can receive SSI right away, as soon as the Social Security office makes a determination. But there is a six-month waiting period from the date that the Social Security office decides about your disability to the date you can begin receiving SSDI benefits. SSI can provide you with supplemental income while you wait for your SSDI benefits to begin.
If you collect SSI, you can also immediately access Medicare, while individuals who only receive SSDI are not able to receive Medicare benefits until they have been receiving SSDI for two years.
Eligibility To Receive SSDI and SSI
To determine your eligibility to receive SSI, you’ll need to consider two main factors: countable resources and SSI income limits.
- Countable resources: Include earned income and some types of unearned income. SSDI is considered unearned income and is therefore one of your countable resources.
- SSI income limits: To qualify for SSI, you must currently not receive more than $794 in unearned income (SSDI benefits) per month.
How Can I Apply for Concurrent Benefits?
Based on the details of your earnings and assets, the Social Security office will determine whether you qualify for concurrent SSI and SSDI benefits. South Carolina’s Disability Determination Services office will evaluate your claim and decide whether your disability qualifies for SSDI and/or SSI.
You can apply for disability benefits over the phone at 1-800-325-0778, in person, or online. The Social Security Administration provides a checklist for disabled individuals who are applying for SSI and SSDI. This checklist will help you know what documents you need to collect before the application process.
Speak To Our Experienced SSD Lawyers
At Land Parker Welch LLC, our skilled SSD lawyers have the knowledge required to guide you through the often challenging process of securing concurrent SSDI and SSI benefits. We can help you through every step of the benefits claims process. Get started now with a free consultation. Call or contact us now.
