Americans on Disability Insurance (SSDI) may find their payments insufficient to cover their needs. In such cases, seeking ways to supplement disability benefits can be crucial for financial stability.
One option that many individuals may not be aware of is Supplemental Security Income (SSI). While some may have previously applied for SSI without success, it is recommended to reapply, especially considering upcoming changes to the program’s rules.
The Social Security Administration is set to implement new SSI rules on September 30, 2024. As a result, individuals are advised to file for SSI on October 1, 2024, to take advantage of the revised measures. These changes aim to broaden SSI access and potentially increase payment amounts, benefiting SSDI recipients.
Among the modifications, the removal of reductions for those receiving food assistance and updates to the definition of Public Assistance Household are notable. Additionally, expanding the SSI rental subsidy policy will help more SSDI recipients qualify for supplemental payments.
While individuals may not receive the full SSI amount if already on SSDI, the additional support can be significant. For instance, the average SSI payment for individuals aged 18-64 is $743, and seniors aged 65 and older receive around $574 on average. These payments can be valuable for those with low SSDI amounts.
Aside from SSI, individuals can explore other benefits like SNAP, TANF, and WIC to enhance their financial situation. Although the average SSDI payment is approximately $1,537, eligibility for SSI may vary based on family financial circumstances, the number of dependents, and other factors.
