There are many different benefit programs that the Social Security Administration manages. One of the most difficult parts of navigating the benefit application process is knowing which programs you have eligibility for and which ones you do not. In certain circumstances, you may find yourself eligible for multiple benefit programs.
Such is the case with Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). These are two separate programs meant to serve distinct groups of Americans: SSDI for disabled Americans with a work history, SSI for disabled Americans who have never been able to work (or who have worked very little). However, it is possible to have eligibility for both, according to Disability Benefits Help.
Understanding concurrent benefits
In the event that you are eligible for both SSDI and SSI, the government calls this “concurrent benefits.” In order for you to be eligible for concurrent benefits, the government must approve you for SSDI before SSI. However, because the income cap on SSI is so low, the amount the government gives you for SSDI must also be a very low amount.
What might cause a low SSDI benefit?
In the event that you have not worked very much over the last 10 years, or had a very limited work history at the time of your disability, your SSDI benefit may be low enough to qualify you for SSI. it is also possible to get a low SSDI amount if you earned low wages throughout your employment history. Understanding what you may qualify for in terms of benefits, particularly if you have eligibility for concurrent benefits, can help you improve your quality of life.