How to Get More Money from SSI Disability?

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program created to help disabled people who have little or no income. It provides cash to meet basic needs for food, clothing, and shelter. For most SSI recipients, the monthly benefits are a critical source of financial support. However, the amount of money received through SSI often falls short of covering all necessary expenses. SSI beneficiaries can use several strategies to try to increase their SSI benefits or improve their overall financial situation.

Sackett & Associates Disability Law Office works hard for disabled people across the country who want to apply for SSI benefits and those who receive SSI but are encountering problems. Disability law is all we do at Sackett Law and we can help you prepare, file, and support your SSI claim. If necessary, we will also handle your appeals throughout the application process. Don’t try to deal with the Social Security Administration (SSA) alone. Get help from experienced professionals who interact with the SSA every day on behalf of clients just like you. Contact our office today.

Understand the Basics of SSI

First, let’s explain the fundamentals of SSI and the criteria used to determine your benefit amount. The Social Security Administration (SSA) calculates SSI benefits based on federal benefit rates, living arrangements, and income. In 2024, the maximum federal SSI benefit is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. However, these amounts can be reduced by other income, living arrangements, or other changes in circumstances.

Be Sure to Access State Supplements

Many states provide additional financial assistance to SSI recipients through state supplementary payments. These payments vary significantly from state to state, both in their amount and in eligibility requirements. California offers a generous state supplement, while other states provide minimal or no additional benefits.

Maximize In-Kind Support and Maintenance

SSI recipients often receive in-kind support and maintenance (ISM) from friends, family, or charitable organizations. Until recently, ISM included things like free housing, food, or other goods and services. The SSA announced in June 2024 that in-kind support in the form of food will no longer be counted against the benefits recipient in calculating deductions from their monthly benefits payment.

The SSA is also expanding the amount of rent subsidies that will be exempt from the agency’s calculations reducing the amount of SSI benefits for recipients. See the Federal Register for more details.

Even though some rent subsidies may continue to result in a benefit reduction, strategic planning of how and when you receive in-kind support and maintenance can minimize its impact on your benefits. For example, ensuring that ISM is provided in ways that the SSA does not count as income, such as one-time gifts or assistance with specific expenses, can help preserve your monthly SSI amount.

Always Review and Appeal SSA Decisions

If you believe the SSA has made an error in calculating your benefits or if your application for SSI was denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. Appeals can involve several levels, including reconsideration of an initial denial of benefits, a hearing before an administrative law judge, review by the Appeals Council, and potentially a federal court review. It is essential to review your records and understand the reasons for the SSA’s decision to effectively present your case. Getting professional assistance from experienced Social Security Disability lawyers like our team at Sackett Law can increase your chances of a successful appeal.

Explore Other Benefit Programs

SSI recipients often qualify for other federal, state, and local assistance programs that can provide additional financial support or reduce expenses. These programs include:

1. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): Provides food assistance to low-income individuals and families.
2. Medicaid: Offers health coverage for low-income individuals, which can cover medical expenses not included in SSI.
3. Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): Helps with heating and cooling energy costs.
4. Housing Assistance: Programs like Section 8 provide rental assistance to low-income individuals.

Applying for and receiving benefits from these programs can alleviate financial pressures and make your SSI benefits stretch further.

Utilize Work Incentives

The SSA offers several work incentives designed to help SSI recipients who want to return to work or increase their income without immediately losing their benefits. These incentives include:

1. Earned Income Exclusion: The SSA does not count the first $65 of earned income plus half of the remaining earned income when calculating SSI benefits.
2. Student Earned Income Exclusion: For those under 22 and regularly attending school, the SSA excludes up to $2,220 of earned income per month, up to a maximum of $8,950 per year.
3. Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS): Allows you to set aside income and resources for a specific work goal, such as education or starting a business.
4. Ticket to Work Program: Provides free employment services to help people with disabilities prepare for, find, and maintain employment.

Taking advantage of these work incentives can help increase your overall income without jeopardizing your SSI benefits.

Manage Resources Effectively

SSI has strict resource limits, with individuals allowed a maximum of $2,000 in countable resources and couples $3,000. Proper management of resources is essential to remain eligible for SSI. Remember that certain assets are excluded from this limit, including your primary residence, one vehicle, and personal effects.

If you receive a lump sum payment, inheritance, or other windfall, it is crucial that you manage these funds in a way that does not jeopardize your SSI eligibility. Some of the most effective strategies include spending the funds on exempt resources, setting up a Special Needs Trust, or using an ABLE account.

Special Needs Trusts and ABLE Accounts

Special Needs Trusts (SNTs) and Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) accounts are financial tools designed to help individuals with disabilities manage their resources without losing eligibility for SSI and other benefits.

1. Special Needs Trusts (SNTs): These trusts hold assets for the benefit of a person with disabilities and are managed by a trustee. Funds in an SNT can be used for various expenses, such as medical care, education, and personal needs, without being counted as resources by the SSA. You can even use these funds to enjoy personal enrichment experiences, travel, and entertainment.
2. ABLE Accounts: ABLE accounts allow individuals with disabilities to save up to $15,000 per year (as of 2024) without affecting SSI eligibility. Funds in an ABLE account can be used for qualified disability expenses, including housing, education, transportation, and health care.

Using these financial tools can help you manage your assets and maintain SSI eligibility. For help with your SSI questions, contact our disability law professionals at Sackett & Associates Disability Law office.