SSI and SSDI

Imagine not being able to marry or even live with the person you love. The recently released documentary Patrice: The Movie, now available on Hulu, addresses this emotionally challenging conundrum.

If you rely on Social Security disability benefits programs such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), the year ahead will offer a somewhat minimal amount of relief financially.

Over the past year, the Social Security Administration has been making numerous improvements to its SSI program. These changes will make things a bit easier for SSI applicants as well as current recipients.

A special needs trust can allow individuals with special needs to preserve assets that will enhance their quality of life while allowing them to remain eligible for needs-based public benefits like Medicaid and SSI.

Special Needs 101

Funds held in a properly drafted special needs trust will not affect a SSI or Medicaid recipient's benefits. However, funds disbursed in a manner that violates SSI or Medicaid rules can impact these benefits.

Special Needs 101

SSI and SSDI are both federal programs that provide cash payments to people who meet the federal definition of disabled. But SSI helps people with disabilities with a limited income, and SSDI doesn’t care about income.

Special Needs 101

Do you have a friend or loved one who receives Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and is unable to manage her payments? If so, you can request that the Social Security Administration name you as the...

Special Needs 101

Although the typical SSDI recipient has worked for a fairly long time before the onset of their disability, adults who became disabled before age 22 may qualify for SSDI if their parent meets certain qualifications.

Special Needs 101

Many Medicaid recipients don't realize that their health insurance coverage generally will not provide a full set of benefits should they require care while out of state. Payment may be necessary before receiving care.

Special Needs 101