Should I apply for SSI and SSDI at the same time?

The Social Security Disability program is available for those individuals who are not of retirement age but are unable to work due to a physical and/or mental condition. There are two types of Social Security Disability programs. One is based on your work history 

(SSDI) and the other is based on your current financial resources (SSI). Both programs share the same medical requirements but differ in terms of their technical qualifications.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) does not require you to have worked and paid taxes into the social security system to qualify. The qualification requirements for this program look at your current financial situation while also determine your medical eligibility. To qualify for SSI, you must meet both financial requirements along with certain medical requirements. SSI looks at both your income and assets when determining if you meet the financial requirements. The asset limit for individuals is $2,000 while for a couple it is $3,000. Excluded from assets are one home and one vehicle, all other possessions will be counted towards your assets. The income limits in 2021 for an individual are $794 and for a couple are $1,191.

If you plan to apply for the disability insurance program it is important to also apply for the SSI program, even if you do not believe you would meet the financial requirements. The reason to apply for SSI in conjunction with the SSDI application is based on when you would be eligible to start receiving benefits. 

Both programs require the same medical determination to see if your conditions meet the definition of disability. If you are covered by the disability insurance program, the next step is to prove your medical eligibility. Meaning, your medical conditions must meet Social Security’s definition of disability.

If you need helping applying for Social Security Disability or SSI, please contact me at joshben99@gmail.com. I have over 20 years experience with Social Security Disability cases.

Location: Michigan, USA

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