What to Do for Income While Waiting for Disability

Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a challenging process. Many applicants wait months for a decision, some can wait years. This waiting period often leaves individuals wondering how they will support themselves financially in the interim.

Understanding the eligibility criteria for SSDI and exploring alternative sources of income are essential steps in maintaining financial stability during this difficult time. If you are working through this process, The Keener Law Firm provides skilled and knowledgeable disability law representation for people across the United States. Keener Law will guide you through the SSDI or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) claim process, ensuring your claim package is complete with supporting medical documentation and helping alleviate the stress of dealing with government bureaucracy. For help preparing your disability claim or advocating for its approval, call The Keener Law Firm for help.

Understanding Financial Eligibility for SSDI

To qualify for SSDI, applicants must meet specific financial and medical requirements. The primary medical criterion is having a severe physical or mental impairment that prevents the applicant from engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA). For 2024, the SSA defines SGA as earning more than $1,550 per month for non-blind individuals or $2,590 per month for those who are blind. (2025 SGA levels will be $1,620 for sighted applicants and $2,700 for blind claimants.) If your earnings exceed these amounts, the SSA generally considers you ineligible for SSDI benefits.

SSDI eligibility also depends on your work history and the number of work credits earned. A detailed explanation of work credits and how they affect SSDI eligibility can be found here, How Many Work Credits Do You Need For SSDI?

Surviving Financially While Waiting for SSDI Approval

One of the biggest challenges for SSDI applicants is finding ways to support themselves while awaiting the outcome of their claim. Below are some options that may help bridge the gap:

1. Private or Employer-Paid Disability Insurance

If you have private or employer-sponsored disability insurance, these policies may offer short-term or long-term disability benefits while you await an SSDI decision. As the name implies, short-term disability insurance typically replaces a portion of your income for several months. Long-term disability insurance provides benefits for a longer period. Unlike workers’ compensation, private disability insurance will not result in an SSDI benefit offset. However, depending on the terms of the private disability insurance contract, your insurer might adjust its payments to you because you receive SSDI benefits. Still, these policies usually offer vital financial assistance while you wait for the SSA to resolve your claim.

2. Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

For individuals with limited income and resources, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) may provide immediate relief. Unlike SSDI, which is based on work history, SSI is a needs-based program that helps people with low income, regardless of their employment record. If you qualify for both SSDI and SSI, you could receive SSI payments while waiting for your SSDI approval. SSI benefits usually begin immediately after an initial review, allowing for quicker access to funds. Significantly, SSI recipients also qualify for Medicaid immediately, while SSDI beneficiaries must wait 24 months after qualifying for benefits before becoming eligible for Medicare coverage.

3. Worker’s Compensation

For individuals who were injured on the job, workers’ compensation can offer financial support. Workers’ compensation generally provides benefits to cover medical costs and a portion of lost wages. However, it is essential to understand that receiving both workers’ compensation and SSDI benefits will lead to a reduction in SSDI payments. The SSA will reduce your SSDI benefits if the total of your workers’ compensation and SSDI benefits exceeds 80% of your previous earnings. This is known as an offset. This ensures that your total benefit package doesn’t exceed what you would have earned while working.

Having an experienced law firm to assist you in applying for SSI or SSDI can significantly reduce the time and effort involved. The Keener Law Firm will guide you through the entire process, from submitting the application to ensuring that all supporting medical documentation is in place. With Keener Law on your side, you can rest assured that your claim will be as comprehensive and well-prepared as possible.

4. Unemployment Benefits

While unemployment benefits may appear to be another possible source of financial relief, they often conflict with SSDI eligibility. Unemployment benefits require you to be actively seeking work and able to perform some type of job, while SSDI requires proof that you are unable to engage in any substantial work. Applying for both at the same time can complicate your SSDI claim and may even result in a denial. If you’re unsure about how unemployment might affect your SSDI application, The Keener Law Firm can provide the legal guidance you need to avoid potential pitfalls and ensure your claim is as strong as possible.

Other Financial Support Options

Aside from private insurance, SSI benefits, workers’ compensation, and unemployment, several other sources of support could be available while awaiting SSDI approval:

• Family Support: While not a long-term solution, family members may be able to provide financial assistance during the SSDI waiting period.
• Charitable Organizations: Local and national charities often help with housing, utilities, and other basic needs for individuals with disabilities. Check your local areas for programs.
• Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF): If you have children and meet income guidelines, you may qualify for temporary financial assistance through TANF.
• Food Assistance Programs: The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) can help eligible individuals and families afford groceries.
• Utility Assistance Programs: Some state programs offer help with utility bills for those who are struggling financially while waiting for SSDI approval.

Reliable Disability Benefits Information

Waiting for an SSDI decision can be a lengthy and frustrating experience, but knowing your options can help you maintain financial stability during this time.

The Keener Law Firm is here to support you throughout the entire disability claim process. With skilled legal professionals to guide you through your SSDI or SSI application, you can reduce the stress of dealing with government bureaucracy and ensure that your claim is complete with all necessary documentation. Get the experience and knowledge of The Keener Law Firm on your side to manage the challenges of the SSDI process and focus on your well-being.