Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
SSDI and SSI are very different programs and the way to maximize your benefits and earnings are very different. Some people may collect both SSI and SSDI, referred to as concurrent beneficiaries they require more extensive benefit planning to determine how to maximize their earnings and benefits.
When a beneficiary plans to return to work, a best practice is to meet with a benefit planner first.
Helping you maximize your benefits and earnings from work is the goal when providing Work Incentive Benefit Planning Services.
Benefit Planning Query (BPQY) is a snapshot of a beneficiaries status and informs work incentive benefit planning
A benefit planner cannot provide quality individualized services without your (BPQY).
The BPQY provides information about a beneficiary’s disability cash benefits, health insurance, scheduled continuing disability reviews, representative payee, and work history, as stored in Social Security’s electronic records. Beneficiaries can request a BPQY by contacting their local Social Security office or by calling Social Security’s toll free number, 1-800-772-1213 between 7 a. m. and 7 p. m., Monday through Friday. People who are deaf or hard-of-hearing may call the toll-free TTY/TDD number, 1-800-325-0778, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Monday through Friday.
SSI age 18 redetermination and loss of Benefits
Up to 50% of SSI beneficiaries lose their benefits at the age 18 redetermination
Essentially, prior to age 18 youth on SSI are entitled to benefits, however when they turn 18 they must meet eligibility criteria.Within the SSI regulations there are procedures that allow an SSI beneficiary the ability to maintain eligibility until they have completed qualified vocational programs.
Many people eventually earn their way off SSI, through work
Section 301 of the Social Security Disability Amendment, provides for continuation of disability benefits to certain individuals whose disability medically ceases while the individual is engaged in a qualified education/training program or vocational rehabilitation (VR).
Our goal is to postpone the loss of benefits until the person has gained the skills, training and education to make a living wage and become independent.
More SSI/SSDI benefit information on disability employment page
Camillus Vocational Services is a SSA Ticket to Work provider