No, you cannot receive both Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Social Security retirement benefits simultaneously. This is because SSDI is essentially an early claim on your Social Security retirement benefits. When someone qualifies for SSDI, they are receiving the same benefits they would later receive as retirement income, just earlier due to their disability.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) calculates SSDI benefits using the same formula as it does for retirement benefits. Your monthly benefit amount is determined based on your lifetime earnings and the Social Security taxes you have paid into the system. Once you reach full retirement age, SSDI benefits automatically convert into Social Security retirement benefits at the same amount. This means there is no financial advantage to collecting both at the same time, as they represent the same entitlement.
At The GCC Law Firm, we dedicate our practice to helping individuals with disabilities receive the government benefits they deserve. Many people who are unable to work may qualify for significant financial assistance through Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
Can You Receive Both SSDI and SSI Benefits?
Yes, it is possible to receive both SSDI and SSI benefits at the same time, provided you meet the eligibility criteria for each program.
SSDI is based on your work history and the amount you have paid into the Social Security system, while SSI is a needs-based program designed to help those with limited income and resources. If your SSDI payment is below the income threshold for SSI and your countable assets do not exceed $2,000 ($3,000 for couples), you may qualify for additional financial assistance through SSI.
At The GCC Law Firm, we frequently help clients maximize their benefits by determining their eligibility for both programs. Some states also provide supplemental payments to SSI recipients, further increasing the amount of support available. Understanding how these programs interact can make a significant difference in your financial stability of you are unable to work due to a disabling condition.
What Are the Differences Between SSDI and SSI?
SSDI is earned through work credits and provides benefits based on the recipient’s past earnings. The amount of an SSDI payment is calculated using the same formula as Social Security retirement benefits. To qualify, a person must have worked and paid Social Security taxes long enough to accumulate sufficient work credits, usually 40 credits accumulated at a rate of 4 credits per year for at least 10 years. (Some exceptions apply if a younger worker becomes disabled)
SSI, on the other hand, is a strictly needs-based program. Eligibility is determined by financial need rather than work history. Even if someone has never worked or has not worked enough to qualify for SSDI, they may still receive SSI benefits if they meet the income and resource limitations.
At The GCC Law Firm, we guide clients through these differences and help them apply for the disability benefits they qualify for, ensuring they receive the maximum assistance available to them.
Why Should You Work with a Disability Lawyer Instead of Filing on Your Own?
While Social Security law allows individuals to file their own disability claims and appeals, doing so without professional legal guidance often leads to unnecessary delays and denials.
Filing for SSDI or SSI requires submitting detailed medical and financial records, completing complex paperwork, and meeting strict deadlines. Without a thorough understanding of the legal requirements, claimants frequently make errors or fail to provide sufficient documentation, leading to denied claims or prolonged processing times. The attorneys at The GCC Law Firm have extensive experience handling Social Security disability claims and know how to present a case effectively, minimizing the risk of errors that could delay or jeopardize a claim.
A skilled disability lawyer ensures that:
- The application includes all necessary medical and work history documentation.
- Deadlines are met, preventing unnecessary delays.
- The claim is structured in the strongest possible way to increase approval odds.
- Appeals are handled efficiently if the initial claim is denied.
Given that a large percentage of disability claims are denied at the initial stage, having an experienced attorney from The GCC Law Firm can significantly improve the chances of a successful outcome. We understand the complexities of Social Security law and provide our clients with the best possible representation throughout the claims process.
What If Your Disability Claim Has Already Been Denied?
If your claim has been denied, do not give up. Many disability claims are denied at the initial application stage, but statistics show that most appeals of initial denials result in a favorable decision.
The GCC Law Firm has a long history of successfully appealing denials and securing benefits for our clients. We carefully review each case, identify weaknesses in the initial claim, and strengthen the appeal with additional medical evidence and legal arguments. Working with a knowledgeable disability lawyer gives claimants the best chance of having their case approved at the reconsideration stage or at a hearing before an administrative law judge.
How Can The GCC Law Firm Help You?
The GCC Law Firm takes pride in helping disabled individuals obtain the benefits they deserve. Whether you are applying for SSDI, SSI, or appealing a denied claim, we have the knowledge and experience to guide you through the process. With offices in Illinois, Indiana, Arkansas, and Oklahoma, we serve clients nationwide, providing dedicated legal support to those struggling with disabilities.
Our team works closely with each client to build a strong case, ensuring all required documentation is submitted correctly and on time. We understand how stressful the process can be, which is why we handle all aspects of the claim, allowing our clients to focus on their health and well-being.
If you need assistance with your Social Security disability claim, contact The GCC Law Firm today. Our legal team is ready to fight for the benefits you deserve and will work tirelessly to secure the financial support you need.