Receiving Social Security Disability: How It Affects Three Other Government Income Programs

28 November 2015
Categories: Law, Blog

If you become disabled and unable to work, you could be eligible for a government program known as Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI. This program offers monthly payments to qualified workers who have paid into the Social Security system. The following article examines a key issue for some people who want to apply for SSDI benefits: how collecting SSDI payments affects certain other government benefits you are receiving or would like to receive in the future.

Supplemental Security Income

The Social Security Administration operates another income program called Supplemental Security Income, or SSI. Government regulations allow you to participate, under certain conditions, in both of these programs at the same time. The government refers to this as collecting "concurrent benefits." The general rule is that you are eligible for concurrent benefits if your monthly payment from SSDI is low. You might receive a low payment, for example, because you did not have a long work history at the time you became disabled.

Veteran's Administration

Are you veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces? In that case, you could be eligible for Veteran's Administration programs that assist those with disabilities or low income. One program is called Veterans Disability and is for veterans who are disabled due to a service-related injury. You may receive both SSDI and Veterans Disability benefits at the same time if you qualify for both programs.

One important point to keep in mind is that the two programs have different rules and you may qualify for one but not the other. For example, you are allowed to receive monthly income from Veteran's Disability even if you have a partial disability. To receive benefits from SSDI, however, you must have a full disability.

Workers Compensation

Workers Compensation offers benefits to workers who have been injured on the job. If you are eligible for Workers Compensation payments from your state, you may also be eligible for SSDI benefits from the Social Security Administration. You must qualify for both programs independently.

A key aspect of collecting both Workers Compensation and SSDI simultaneously is that your total payment from both programs may not exceed 80 percent of your previous earnings from your employer. If you are entitled to receive more than this, the total amount will be reduced so that it does not exceed 80 percent of your previous earned income.

Obtaining benefits from SSDI and certain other government programs at the same time is a complex issue that may require the assistance of an expert to navigate successfully. For more information about this important topic, contact a social security disability lawyer.

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I have worked as a legal office assistant for about 20 years. The office specializes in personal injury claims, and many clients are looking for settlements. I have great compassion for the individuals I see, and most people are looking for money to pay their bills. Unfortunately, insurance claims are difficult and clients often file the wrong paperwork. They don't see many doctors due to costs, and settlement offers are generally low. I know that lawyers can help to raise claims substantially. They know the law and they can offer advice to clients so good results are seen. I want you to learn some basic information about personal injuries, insurance settlements, and the general claims process. Your rights and needs are important, but it's difficult to secure a settlement if you know nothing about the law. Gain some knowledge today, so your personal injury decisions are the right ones.