I Qualify For SSDI. What Other Benefits Can I Get?

If you cannot work due to a disability, you likely have issues with income. Yes, you may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, but it is still a process to get approved. And even then, the benefits are not always substantial enough to pay for your bills and other expenses.

So you may wonder: since you’re so low-income and unable to work, what other benefits can you get to help with the costs of everyday living? There are other benefits from local, state, and federal programs that you can qualify for. Here’s a look at them.

Supplemental Security Income

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is another benefit from the Social Security Administration. It provides monthly payments to adults and children with disabilities, as well as adults over the age of 65 who have limited income and resources but are not disabled. You can receive both SSDI and SSI payments.

Disability Insurance

Besides SSDI, it’s possible you may have disability insurance from other sources. For example, if you bought disability insurance from a private insurer before becoming disabled, you may be eligible for monthly payments. You can use both private insurance and SSDI at the same time.

If you were employed at the time of your disability, keep in mind that many employers offer short-term or long-term disability insurance. These plans can pay a percentage of your salary for three months, a year, or even the rest of your life.

Food and Energy Benefits 

If you need money for food or energy, there are a couple programs that can help:

• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). SNAP helps pay for groceries for low-income families. These benefits are disbursed on a debit card that you can use to buy certain foods in authorized stores.
• Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program. This federally funded program subsidizes energy costs, including heating and cooling. Those who receive SNAP and SSI may be automatically eligible. 

Tax Breaks

If you receive SSDI, you can also qualify for these tax breaks:

• Reduced income tax on your SSDI income. If you don’t have other substantial income besides your SSDI and your total income is less than $25,000 a year, you won’t owe any income tax on your SSDI.
• Earned income tax credit. This is a tax break for low-income families and those with disabilities. This credit can reduce what you owe in income taxes or increase your refund amount.
• Extra tax exemptions or deductions. The IRS offers an increased standard deduction for those who are legally blind. There are other tax breaks available for those with physical or mental disabilities.

Learn More About Social Security Disability Benefits

Those who receive SSDI benefits may be able to receive other benefits as well. It’s a good idea to do some research and see how you can save money on everyday life.

A White Plains Social Security Disability lawyer from The Law Office of Michael Lawrence Varon can also help you get the benefits you deserve. Get started by scheduling a free consultation. Call (914) 228-1770 or fill out the online form.

Source:

nerdwallet.com/article/investing/social-security/other-benefits-with-ssdi