Navigating Social Security benefits can be tricky, especially when you’re on Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) but don’t quite qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). With the recent changes to Social Security’s rules, there’s good news for those who may have been just outside the eligibility lines before. In this article, we’ll break down what these changes are, how they could affect SSDI recipients, and what to expect if you apply again for SSI.
SSI and SSDI
Before diving into the new rules, it’s important to understand the difference between SSI and SSDI. SSDI is for people who have earned enough work credits and paid into Social Security through payroll taxes but are now unable to work due to a disability. SSI, on the other hand, is a needs-based program designed to provide financial assistance to low-income individuals who are aged, blind, or disabled.
The tricky part is that some SSDI recipients have a low income but still don’t qualify for SSI because their income is slightly above the SSI threshold. Even if you didn’t qualify before, recent changes could make a difference.
SSI Eligibility
The Social Security Administration (SSA) introduced changes on September 30, 2024, that are set to expand eligibility for SSI and could benefit SSDI recipients who were previously close to qualifying. These new rules focus on a few key areas:
Expanded Public Assistance
If you’re on SNAP benefits (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) in addition to SSDI, you’re in luck. The SSA expanded the definition of a public assistance household, meaning more people who receive SNAP will now qualify for SSI. This is a great benefit for SSDI recipients already relying on food assistance.
Food Excluded
One of the biggest changes is that food is no longer included in the In-Kind Support and Maintenance (ISM) calculations. ISM refers to the help you receive from others in the form of food and shelter, which is factored into determining your SSI benefits. By excluding food from ISM, many people are seeing their SSI payments increase significantly. In fact, over 90,000 people have already seen their benefits rise by $131 per month on average because of this change.
Rental Subsidy Policy
Another major update involves the expansion of the rental subsidy policy to all SSI applicants. Previously, rental assistance could reduce your SSI benefits, but this rule change means rental subsidies are no longer counted against you in the same way. About 41,000 people have already benefited from this, with their SSI payments increasing by $132 per month on average.
These changes make a significant difference for those who receive SSDI but were previously held back from getting full SSI benefits due to food assistance or rental support.
SSI Payments
Now, you might be wondering, “How much could I get from SSI if I’m already on SSDI?” The answer isn’t straightforward, as it depends on your individual circumstances. SSI benefits can be reduced if you receive SSDI, and you may not qualify for the maximum amounts, which are currently $943 for individuals and $1,415 for eligible married couples.
The average SSI payment for recipients who also receive SSDI is typically closer to $698. However, your payment could vary based on your financial situation and personal circumstances. For SSDI recipients, the average SSDI payment is around $1,539, which is often higher than the average SSI payment.
If you’re over 65, your situation might be a bit different. Many seniors receiving retirement benefits get smaller SSI payments—around $575 on average—because their retirement income is factored in.
Should You Reapply for SSI?
If you’ve applied for SSI before and didn’t qualify, now might be a good time to reapply. The recent changes mean that the SSA has relaxed some of the rules that previously excluded people, especially those receiving food assistance or rental support. Since these adjustments could potentially boost your benefits, it’s worth considering another application, particularly if your income was just over the limit before.
| Type of Support | Old Calculation Impact | New Calculation Impact | Average Monthly Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| SNAP benefits + SSDI | Excluded some applicants | Now expands eligibility | Varies by individual |
| Food support (ISM) | Decreased SSI benefits | No longer counted in ISM | +$131 for 90,000 recipients |
| Rental assistance (ISM) | Reduced SSI benefits | No longer penalized | +$132 for 41,000 recipients |
These changes could offer a financial boost, making SSI more accessible for those on SSDI who have previously been disqualified.
The SSA’s new rules aim to make the system more inclusive, offering a helping hand to those who need it most. If you’ve been close to qualifying for SSI but were held back by the previous guidelines, now is the time to revisit your application and see if you’re eligible under the new rules.
FAQs
Can I qualify for both SSDI and SSI at the same time?
Yes, some individuals can qualify for both SSDI and SSI, depending on their income and assets.
How have ISM calculations changed with the new rules?
Food support is no longer counted in ISM, which can increase your SSI benefits.
What is the maximum SSI benefit I can receive?
For 2024, the maximum SSI benefit is $943 for individuals and $1,415 for couples.
Will rental assistance reduce my SSI benefits?
Not anymore. Rental subsidies are no longer counted in ISM, so they won’t reduce your SSI.
Should I reapply for SSI if I was denied before?
Yes, the recent rule changes may allow you to qualify if you were previously denied.
