Linda was a stay-at-home mom and homemaker her entire life. At age 40, she divorced and re-entered the workforce. Unfortunately, she became disabled at age 41. Because she had not accrued enough work credits, she was unable to qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance benefits based on her work history. She searched for other ways to support herself while also dealing with her disabling condition.
Most people have heard of Social Security. Some even receive assistance from the Supplemental Security Income program, which grew from the Title XVI of the Social Security Act. If it comes time for you to apply for government benefits, it’s important to know how Title XVI will affect your disability payments.
How are Title XVI benefits different?
First, Title XVI benefits are commonly referred to as Supplemental Security Income or SSI. These benefits are paid to disabled individuals who do not have the money to pay for basic needs and living expenses. SSI provides financial assistance to qualified disabled individuals with limited resources and income. This includes disabled children under the age of 18.
This program is not funded by Social Security taxes withdrawn from workers’ paychecks. Instead, general tax money pays for SSI benefits. So, your eligibility for SSI is not based on your past income or work history.
In fact, unlike Social Security Disability Insurance benefits (SSDI), applicants do not need work credits to qualify. The Social Security Administration does require applicants to have limited income and resources.
SSI assistance typically goes to disabled people, but it is possible for people over the age of 65 to receive SSI. Their eligibility is not based on a medical condition, but on financial hardship.
Find Out If You May Qualify for Disability Benefits.
Even though the process is designed to be non-adversarial, it still helps to have someone in your corner. The attorneys at The Law Offices of Martin Taller have the experience and ability to take on your case. For a free consultation, call us at 714-385-8100 or complete our Contact Form. We assist clients throughout Southern California from our home office in Anaheim.
