In August 2024, some Social Security beneficiaries will receive double payments if they qualify for both Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). This is a great opportunity for those who are eligible for both programs. Here’s what you need to know about these double payments, including how to qualify and what steps to take if your application is denied.
Payment Schedule
When Will You Get Your Double Payments?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has specific payment dates for each program:
- SSI Payments: These are generally issued on the 1st of every month.
- SSDI Payments: For people who began receiving benefits before May 1997, payments are made on the 3rd of every month.
For August, if you qualify for both SSI and SSDI, you may receive a double payment. Make sure you check your payment schedule to see when you will get your money.
Eligibility for Double Payments
Can You Receive Both SSI and SSDI?
Yes, you can be eligible for both SSI and SSDI. Here’s how:
- Early Career Disability: If you became unable to work early in your career.
- Low Wage Jobs: If you had low-wage jobs.
- Limited Full-Time Work: If you didn’t work full-time in the ten years before you became disabled.
SSI helps people with limited income and resources who cannot work. SSDI is for disabled workers and doesn’t have income limits. If you receive both benefits, it can increase your monthly income, especially if SSDI benefits are low due to past low-wage work.
Income and Resource Limits
To qualify for SSI, you must meet these limits:
- Monthly Income Limit: $1,767 for individuals or $2,607 for couples.
- Resource Limit: $2,000 for individuals and $3,000 for couples.
These limits are important when applying for SSI and SSDI together. Receiving extra SSI benefits can greatly boost your income until you find other work or sources of income.
Payment Dates
When Will the Payments Be Made?
For August, here are the payment dates for those who qualify for both SSI and SSDI:
- Thursday, August 1: SSI beneficiaries
- Saturday, August 3: SSDI recipients (for those claiming before May 1997)
- Friday, August 9: Birth dates between August 1 and 10
- Friday, August 16: Birth dates between August 11 and 20
- Friday, August 23: Birth dates between August 21 and 31
What If Your Application Is Denied?
Common Reasons for Denial and What to Do
If your application for double Social Security payments is denied, don’t panic. Denials can happen for various reasons. Here’s what you can do:
Common Reasons for Denial
- Technical Errors: Missing important sections on the application.
- Discrepancies: Incorrect information, like mismatched names or Social Security numbers.
- Insufficient Work Credits: Not enough work credits for SSDI.
- Income/Asset Limits: Exceeding the limits for SSI.
- Disability Qualification: Not meeting the disability criteria.
Steps to Take After Denial
- Request Reconsideration: Ask for a review of your application and provide any additional evidence.
- Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) Hearing: If reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing before an ALJ to review your claim.
Double Social Security payments in August can provide significant financial support for those eligible for both SSI and SSDI. By understanding the eligibility requirements, payment schedules, and steps to take if your application is denied, you can better navigate the system and maximize your benefits. Make sure you are aware of the payment dates and keep track of any deadlines to ensure you receive all the benefits you are entitled to.