People who are unable to work due to a disability may rely on government benefits. The Social Security Administration (“Social Security”) runs two such programs: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). How much an individual can receive in SSDI and SSI benefits is a crucial question for millions of Americans, especially because of the rising cost of living. As a matter of fact, Social Security changes the SSDI and SSI programs every year. In October 2019, the administration announced its changes for 2020 SSDI and SSI benefits.
2020 Social Security Disability Insurance Benefits
SSDI is offered to qualified individuals who have a condition that prevents them from working. Recipients must also have earned the required number of work credits.
The following things changed in 2020 for SSDI recipients:
- The income needed to earn one income credit increased from $1,360 to $1,410.
- Substantial Gainful Activity (non-blind) increased to $1,260 per month.
- Substantial Gainful Activity (blind) increased to $2,110 per month.
- During a trial work period month, SSDI recipients can earn up to $910.
An SSDI beneficiary’s monthly benefit payment is still based on his or her lifetime average earnings that were covered by Social Security.
2020 Supplemental Security Income Benefits
SSI may be awarded to individuals who:
- Are at least 65 years old OR blind or disabled.
- Have limited income and resources.
- Are citizens or nationals of the United States or certain aliens.
- Live in the United States, District of Columbia, or the Northern Mariana Islands, with some exceptions.
This list includes the basic requirements. SSI applicants must also meet certain income and resource limits. Finally, marital status and household income may affect an individual’s ability to get monthly SSI benefits.
In 2020, Social Security increased SSI payments to $783 for individuals and $1,175 for couples.
Social security also raised income limits. Individuals might receive $803 to $1,651 based on the nature of their income. Couples may earn from $1,195 to $2,435.
You Won’t Receive 2020 SSDI and SSI Benefits if You Don’t Apply
But applying for any government benefit is difficult. The forms can be confusing, and deadlines are easy to miss. Also, you will have to give Social Security a lot of information about yourself and your dependents, in addition to numerous supporting documents.
For a free consultation with an experienced Social Security attorney, consult with an attorney at The Law Offices of Martin Taller. Call us at 714-385-8100. From our home office in Anaheim, we represent clients throughout Southern California.
