Q. Will paid employment affect my
social security benefits?
A. Social Security benefits can be
affected; however, it is very important to meet with a social
security representative to discuss your particular situation. Your
case manager can assist you with navigating this system if you would
like assistance.
Though each person’s situation is unique, here is some general
information regarding social security benefits:
There are two basic entitlements to collecting social security.
- The first is called Title 2, SSDI (Social
Security Disability Income).
- The second is Title 16, SSI (Supplemental Security
Income).
The Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program pays benefits to disabled
workers and their families. To be eligible for SSDI, you must be
disabled and must have earned a minimum number of credits from work
covered under Social Security. (The required number of credits
varies depending on your age at the time you became disabled.)
The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program provides
monthly income to people who are age 65 or older, or are blind or
disabled, and have limited income and financial resources. Effective
January 2003, the SSI payment for an eligible individual is $552 per
month and $829 per month for an eligible couple. If you are married,
and only one person is eligible, a portion of your spouse's income
may be counted. In addition, your financial resources (savings and
assets you own) cannot exceed $2,000 ($3,000 if married). You can be
eligible for SSI even if you have never worked in employment covered
under Social Security. No SSI benefits are paid to family members,
only to the disabled person.
Generally, to be eligible for SSI, an individual also must be a
resident of the United States and must be a citizen or a noncitizen
lawfully admitted for permanent residence. Also, some noncitizens
granted a special status by the Immigration and Naturalization
Service may be eligible.
For more information, you may want to call our toll-free number,
1-800-772-1213, and ask for our publications called "Disability"
(Publication No. 05-10029) and "SSI" (Publication No.
05-11000).
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