Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) payments provide financial relief to people unable to work due to a disability. However, sometimes SSDI is not enough. SSDI recipients may wonder if they can accept other benefits in addition to their SSDI payments.
It is possible to receive other benefits. However, in some cases, SSDI may be reduced if you receive benefits from other programs. Let’s look at some of those other programs.
Employment-Related Benefits
Usually, you may have the option to collect Social Security Disability Insurance and disability payments from private sources. For example, receiving benefits from an employer’s disability insurance policy usually does not affect SSDI benefits.
Some people work in jobs that provide pensions. It’s reasonable to worry that your pension might affect your eligibility for public benefits:
- Pensions from work where you did NOT pay Social Security taxes trigger a reduction in your SSDI benefits.
- Pensions from jobs where you DID pay Social Security taxes will not reduce your SSDI benefits. You can receive both simultaneously.
Other Federal Government Programs
Probably the most common benefit you’ll see people receive along with their SSDI is Supplemental Security Income or SSI. Eligibility is based on financial need.
Veterans may be able to collect disability benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs and Social Security Administration at the same time.
State Benefits
Some states, including California, have temporary disability programs. However, the amount of the state benefits may be offset from your SSDI payments.
Financial Needs-Based Benefits
While you are waiting to hear about your disability claim, consider applying for Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP) or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families. In some cases, you may be able to continue receiving these benefits even while receiving disability benefits.
A Disability Attorney Can Help Every Step of the Way.
A Social Security Disability Insurance case may take as long as 32 months if a reconsideration and appeal are needed. You may need to look into other assistance programs until you reach an SSDI decision.
For a free consultation with an experience Social Security attorney, consult with an attorney at The Law Offices of Martin Taller. Call us at 714-385-8100. We assist clients through Southern California from our home office in Anaheim.
