Quote:
Originally Posted by pathrunner
My understanding from talking with an attorney's office this morning is that taking SSI reduces your take on your SSD monthly. Not sure if your situation fits into that, of course.
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That is not correct. SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) is determined on your earning records and is paid out of the SS trust fund. Once you are determined eligible, it does not change but will be adjusted with cost of living increases, if there are any--as in this year, there was none.
SSI (Supplemental Security Income) is paid from the general fund. It is paid if you qualify as someone who has limited resources and income. Your SSDI is included in your income and can make you ineligible for SSI, if you exceed the statutory limit and the total income determines the SSI, if qualified.
SSDI can reduce SSI but SSI cannot reduce SSDI.
The answer to the OP question is simple. If you resources and income changes, all you have to do is reapply for SSI. You will need to provide new income and resource records but it is not the same bunch of paperwork that you needed to do for SSDI.
I know this because I receive SSDI but have been determined ineligible for SSI because of resources. I was automatically applied for SSI because my initial SSDI payment were below the threshold but when I reported my assets, that is cash in savings, IRA, investments etc.--I was not eligible. If I become eligible, which I doubt, I will reapply. I am single and the limit on assets is $2000--that is not much money. I would have to spend down, a lot of money or get a wife and then it will all be gone, instantly.
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