Next week, certain seniors will receive two Social Security checks if they qualify for both programs. This is an important opportunity to boost your financial stability. Here’s how to know if you’re eligible for these payments and what you need to do to receive them.
Who Will Receive Two Payments?
Understanding the Programs
Most people only get benefits from one Social Security program. However, some people can get payments from both the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) programs. This means they can receive double payments.
Payment Dates in July
Here’s the payment schedule for July:
- Monday, July 1: SSI beneficiaries
- Wednesday, July 3: SSDI beneficiaries who started receiving payments before May 1997
- Wednesday, July 10: Beneficiaries born between July 1 and July 10
- Wednesday, July 17: Beneficiaries born between July 11 and July 20
- Wednesday, July 24: Beneficiaries born between July 21 and July 31
Eligibility for Double Payments
Qualifying for Both SSI and SSDI
You can receive both SSI and SSDI if you meet certain conditions. Here are some situations where you might qualify:
- Early Disability: If you became disabled early in your career.
- Minimum-Wage Job: If you worked a minimum-wage job.
- Part-Time Work History: If you didn’t have a full-time job for ten years before your disability.
Income and Resource Limits
To qualify for SSI, your monthly income must not be more than $1,767 if you are single or $2,607 if you are a couple. Also, your resources (like savings) must not exceed $2,000 for single people or $3,000 for married couples.
Applying for SSDI and SSI
Boosting Your Benefits
If your SSDI payments are low because you worked minimum-wage jobs, SSI can add to your income indefinitely or until you find other employment.
What If Your SSDI Application Is Denied?
Many applicants are denied the first time they apply for SSDI. Here are common reasons for denial:
- Technical Issues: Not filling out a crucial part of your application.
- Discrepancies: Mistakes in your Social Security number, name, or date of birth.
- Insufficient Work Credits: Not having enough work credits for your age.
- Income or Asset Limits: Exceeding the income or resource limits for SSI.
- Non-Qualifying Disability: The disability examiner decides your condition doesn’t qualify.
Steps to Take After Denial
If your application is denied, you can request a reconsideration where another disability examiner will review your claim. If denied again, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ).
Getting double Social Security payments can greatly improve your financial situation. Knowing the eligibility criteria and the application process is essential for maximizing your benefits. Don’t get discouraged if you are denied at first—keep trying, and you may eventually get the support you need.
1. Who can get both SSI and SSDI payments?
People who became disabled early, worked minimum-wage jobs, or didn’t have full-time jobs for ten years before their disability can qualify for both payments.
2. What are the income limits for SSI?
Your monthly income must not exceed $1,767 if you are single or $2,607 if you are a couple.
3. When will I receive my SSI payment in July?
SSI payments for July will be made on Monday, July 1.
4. What should I do if my SSDI application is denied?
You can request a reconsideration or a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ).
5. How can SSI help if my SSDI payments are low?
SSI can supplement your income indefinitely or until you find other employment, especially if your SSDI payments are low due to a history of minimum-wage work.
