If you’ve been denied Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) due to insufficient work credits or exhausted all your appeals after being found “not disabled,” it can feel like the end of the road, especially when your disability has left you facing financial hardship. But being denied SSDI doesn’t mean you’re out of options. One potential option is Supplemental Security Income (SSI). What’s the difference between the two, and can you apply for SSI after being denied SSDI? Let’s break it down.
Understanding the Difference Between SSDI and SSI
Both SSDI and SSI are federal programs designed to assist individuals unable to work due to a disability. While both programs use the same medical standard for determining disability, they differ in their non-medical eligibility requirements:
- SSDI is based on your work history and the Social Security taxes you’ve paid over the years. To qualify, you need to have worked long enough and recently enough under Social Security, in addition to meeting the SSA’s definition of disability. If you don’t meet these work requirements, your application will be denied.
- SSI, however, is based on financial need rather than work history. It’s intended for individuals with limited income and resources, including those who haven’t accumulated enough work credits for SSDI.
Can I Apply for SSI After Being Denied SSDI?
The short answer is yes, you can apply for SSI even if you’ve been denied SSDI. In fact, many people who are denied SSDI go on to qualify for SSI. Here’s why:
- Different Eligibility Criteria
SSDI focuses on your work history, while SSI is purely based on financial need. If your SSDI application was denied because you didn’t have enough work credits, you may still be eligible for SSI if you meet the income and asset requirements.
2. Same Medical Standards
SSDI and SSI use the same medical criteria to evaluate whether you are disabled. If the Social Security Administration (SSA) determines that you meet the disability requirements but you don’t qualify for SSDI, you may still be able to receive SSI.
3. Dual Applications
In some cases, you can apply for both SSDI and SSI at the same time, known as a concurrent claim. This is typically done when someone has a limited work history and low income, allowing them to potentially receive benefits from both programs.
Why Was My SSDI Claim Denied?
If your SSDI claim was denied, it’s important to understand the reason why, as it could impact your SSI eligibility. Common reasons for SSDI denials include:
- Not having enough work credits
- Failing to meet the SSA’s strict disability criteria
- Incomplete or insufficient medical documentation
- Earning more than the substantial gainful activity (SGA) limit
If your denial was based on something other than work credits, you may still have a chance to appeal your SSDI denial and provide additional evidence to support your claim.
How to Apply for SSI After Being Denied SSDI
If you’ve been denied SSDI and want to apply for SSI, here are the steps you should follow:
1. Gather Your Documents
You’ll need to provide detailed information about your income, assets, and living situation. The SSA will also review your medical records to determine whether you meet their definition of disability.
2. Start Application Online, In Person, or by Telephone
You can start an application for SSI online through the SSA’s website. You can alternatively call or visit your local Social Security office. If you’re applying for both SSDI and SSI, make sure to indicate that you want to file a concurrent claim (both applications).
3. Seek Legal Assistance
Navigating the complexities of Social Security disability law can be overwhelming. If you’re unsure about your eligibility or need help with the application process, consulting with a disability lawyer can increase your chances of success.
Being denied SSDI doesn’t have to be the end of your journey to receiving disability benefits. Applying for SSI is a viable option for many people with limited income and resources. If you’re unsure where to start or need help navigating the process, our team at Roose & Ressler is here to guide you through each step. Contact us a free, no-obligation consultation and let us help you find the best path forward.
The Roose & Ressler Team is located in Lorain, Toledo, and Wooster, Ohio. You can count on us as your local disability advocates to analyze your case thoroughly in order to determine what is necessary for you to receive benefits. We assess the best methods to prove the crucial facts of your case and gather the necessary evidence. Having 40+ years of experience serving Northern Ohioans, we know the ins and outs of the local disability process.