Disability and Social Security serve as critical lifelines for many, but understanding how they work together can often be incredibly confusing. For those dealing with a disability, the financial implications extend beyond just day-to-day expenses; they encompass medical bills, accessibility needs, and, often, reduced earning capacity.
It’s easy to feel confused and unsure about the process, and like you have to jump through hoops to get the security you deserve. And it’s normal to have questions at this point, wondering, “Can you collect disability and Social Security at the same time?” or if one will impact the other.
The good news is that while you cannot draw both full Social Security Disability Insurance and Social Security retirement benefits at the same time, there are ways in which these programs work together to support those who are disabled or nearing retirement.
At Hunter | Everage, we recognize the emotional and financial toll that disabilities can impose. We’re here to help demystify the process, ensuring you have all the information you need to make informed decisions.
Understanding the Difference Between Disability Benefits and Social Security
When it comes to financial support from the government, the terms “disability benefits” and “Social Security” are often used interchangeably, but they’re not the same thing. To understand whether you can collect both, it’s important to know how each program works and who qualifies.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is designed for people who can no longer work due to disability. This program is available to those who have a work history and have paid into the Social Security system over the years through payroll taxes.
Essentially, if you’ve worked long enough and recently enough, and you have a condition that meets the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) definition of disability, you can qualify for SSDI. It’s not based on your financial situation—it’s based on your work history and health status.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a separate program designed to help people with limited income and resources. Unlike SSDI, SSI does not depend on your work history. Instead, it’s based on your financial need.
SSI is available to people who are disabled, blind, or elderly and have very low income and minimal assets. Your financial situation must meet strict guidelines to qualify for SSI.
On the other hand, Social Security retirement benefits are payments you receive when you reach retirement age based on the work credits you’ve accumulated over your lifetime. Eligibility for these benefits is based primarily on age and work history. Recipients are typically eligible to start receiving benefits at age 62, though the retirement age varies based on birth year.
Eligibility Requirements for Collecting Both Benefits
So, can you receive Social Security and disability at the same time? The short answer is that you generally cannot receive both Social Security retirement and disability benefits at the same time.
If you’re receiving SSDI and reach your full retirement age, your disability benefits automatically convert into Social Security retirement benefits. You will continue receiving payments, but they will now be classified as retirement income. There is no interruption in payments, and the amount generally stays the same.
However, it is possible to receive SSI and Social Security retirement benefits simultaneously, depending on your financial situation. If you have limited income and resources, you may be eligible for SSI benefits along with a reduced Social Security retirement benefit.
How Disability Payments Affect Your Social Security Benefits
If you’re receiving Social Security Disability Insurance, your payments are based on your work history, just like Social Security retirement benefits. SSDI is intended to replace the income you would have earned if you were still able to work.
When you reach full retirement age, your SSDI benefits will automatically convert into Social Security retirement benefits. The important thing to note here is that your monthly benefit amount doesn’t change. The switch is more of a technical shift from the Social Security Administration’s perspective.
You’re not receiving an additional benefit, but you continue to get the same amount you were receiving through SSDI, which would then be categorized as retirement income.
If you’re receiving SSDI, you may be able to receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI), a more needs-based program for those with limited income. To be eligible for SSI, you must meet specific income and resource limits. The SSA defines resources as any assets that can be converted into cash, including:
- Bank accounts, stocks, or U.S. savings bonds
- Real estate
- Personal belongings
- Life insurance policies
Additionally, under this program, income from sources like retirement or SSDI benefits is considered unearned income. In 2024, the average monthly retirement benefit is $1,848, although many individuals receive less.
For SSI eligibility, unearned income must not exceed $943 per month in 2024, with a limit of $1,415 per month for couples. You must also satisfy other financial criteria to qualify for these benefits.
Contact an Experienced Richmond SSDI Lawyer
When it comes to answering the question, “Can you get disability and Social Security at the same time?” The short answer is that you can’t receive Social Security Disability Insurance and Social Security retirement benefits at the same time, as one follows the other.
However, you can be eligible for Supplemental Security Income alongside SSDI, depending on your income. While this may sound complicated, you don’t have to tackle the intricacies of the legal system on your own.
Hunter | Everage has more than 35 years of combined experience helping people like you—hard-working individuals who’ve hit a tough spot and are looking for guidance. We’re proud to be a Black-owned business dedicated to supporting the so-called “little guy”—those who may feel like the odds are stacked against them.
Whether you’re struggling with a denied claim or trying to understand how disability benefits will affect your Social Security, we’re here to fight for your rights and make sure you get the benefits you deserve.
We are your trusted legal help when you are hurting because we know the process is about more than just rules and regulations—it’s about helping you regain some peace of mind in these difficult times.
If you need legal support and guidance, contact our Richmond SSDI lawyers at 704-377-9157 today and request a consultation.