Managing concurrent Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) claims can be an overwhelming and sometimes complex process. However, our seasoned Leesburg disability attorney group handles such claims and is ready to help you get the benefits you need.
A common question is whether receiving SSDI and SSI benefits simultaneously is possible. It is possible and is known as receiving ‘concurrent’ benefits, but it is important to note the differences between the two programs and how they can affect the monetary amount you receive from each one.
What Are The Differences Between SSDI and SSI Benefits?
SSDI and SSI are benefit programs for people considered disabled by Social Security’s standards, meaning they have a disabling injury or illness that prevents them from working for at least a year.
SSDI benefits are distributed to disabled people regardless of their financial situation. The overarching requirement for receiving these benefits is that you must have paid Social Security taxes and held a job for a certain period of time, determined by the state you reside in. The monetary amount depends on your average lifetime earnings.
SSI benefits are only available to a disabled, blind, or elderly person with a low income and limited financial resources. These benefits are not contingent upon job status or whether or not you have paid Social Security taxes.
However, to receive SSI, your “countable” income (which includes SSDI payments and other benefits) must not exceed a specified limit set by the government. For 2023, these limits are $914 a month for individuals and $1,371 for married couples. So, if your SSDI amount exceeds $914 a month, you are ineligible for SSI benefits. If the amount is lower, you can receive SSI benefits, but the amount will be reduced by almost the entire amount of your SSDI.
Navigating the intricacies of SSDI and SSI benefits and their limitations is often a complicated process to take on yourself, so reaching out to a Leesburg disability attorney can benefit you in the long run due to our streamlined process for handling SSDI and SSI concurrent claims. Below is the typical process of working with one of our attorneys.
Initial Client Consultation
This meeting is vital because this is when we will determine if you qualify for SSDI, SSI, or both. We will review your work history, income, and medical condition during this consultation. So, you must bring any documents and records that could help your disability claim.
Detailed Medical Record Analysis
We will then examine your medical history, including all relevant healthcare records, test results, and doctor’s notes. These documents are necessary for understanding the severity of your disability and how it affects your ability to work.
Comprehensive Case Preparation
Our next step involves gathering crucial documents to support your disability claim, such as medical evidence and vocational expert testimony. These experts provide objective insight during hearings on job market conditions and skill requirements, demonstrating how your disability impacts your employment opportunities.
Application Submission
We will then ensure your applications for SSDI and SSI are complete, accurate, and submitted on time. We will work together to ensure your application highlights how the disability prevents you from working.
Follow-up Communication
After the applications are submitted, we will continue to track the progress of both claims with the Social Security Administration and handle any issues that may come up.
Preparation for Possible Appeal
If your application is denied, we will begin preparing for the appeal process. This includes requesting an application reconsideration or, in extreme cases, preparing for a hearing in front of a judge.
Continual Case Review
We will continually review your case, updating evidence as new medical records become available.
Why You Need A Leesburg Disability Attorney
Our firm has a proven track record, having successfully navigated the process for our clients for over 45 years. We offer a comprehensive, step-by-step approach to handling your SSDI and SSI concurrent claims. Our Leesburg disability attorney team is committed to advocating for your rights from the initial consultation to the application submission. Trust us to assist you through the SSDI and SSI benefits process, making it as seamless and stress-free as possible. Contact us today to learn more about our solutions and how we can help you.