To be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), the Social Security Administration must find you to be incapable of Substantial Gainful Activity, as detailed in section 520 of the Social Security Act. The Social Security Administration describes substantial gainful activity as “the performance of significant duties over a reasonable period of time while working for pay or profit, or in work generally done for pay or profit.” Having a job and getting paid for it is a substantial gainful activity.
If you are considering applying for SSI or SSDI benefits, it’s important to consult an attorney familiar with the Social Security system’s complex rules. The legal team at the Kenton Koszdin Law Office has successfully represented Southern California SSI and SSDI applicants for over a decade. Call us today at (800) 438-7734 for a free consultation.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
To be qualified for SSI benefits, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Have little or no resources or income
- Be medically disabled
- Not working; or working, but not earning enough to support themselves
Right now, the Substantial Gainful Activity level is $1,820 per month for a blind person, and $1,090 per month for a disabled person. Anyone disabled who earns more than these amounts each month won’t get benefits.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
To qualify for SSDI benefits, applicants must meet these requirements:
- Must have been employed and paid into the Social Security system (through taxes) for enough years to be covered
- Be medically disabled
- Not working; or working, but not earning enough to support themselves
Can You Receive Both SSI and SSDI Benefits?
Generally not, but in some cases it is possible. If a person is approved for SSDI, but only receives a low monthly payment, they can supplement their SSDI benefit with an SSI benefit. These are called “concurrent benefits.” Concurrent benefits are usually allowed when a person hasn’t worked enough or earned enough to pay into the SSDI system. Someone getting concurrent benefits won’t receive a higher amount of money per month because their SSI benefit will be offset by the SSDI benefit they receive.
Trial Work Period
If you are receiving SSDI and decide to try going back to work, you won’t immediately lose your benefits. The Social Security Administration allows you to work and earn an income while still receiving your monthly SSDI payment. The trial work period is usually nine months.
Dealing with the Social Security system can get complicated for someone not experienced. The Kenton Koszdin Law Office is passionate about the rights of injured and disabled people throughout Los Angeles County. If your injury or illness prevents you from coming to our office, we will visit you in person.
Call (800) 438-7734 for a free consultation.
