Help with SSI and SSD

Factual Questions
1

Hey all.

I’ve been disabled for some time (over a decade). When I first became disabled, I was a recipient of SSI and SSD payments. About 5 or 6 years ago, my SSD was raised, and my SSI eliminated because my SSD was raised.
Due to disheartening financial times, I’m considering re-applying for SSI. I’m wondering if anyone can tell me if it’s worthwhile trying? I’ve tried to go through various labyrinthine google searches to no avail. I just need to know- what is the maximum ammount I can be making in Illinois and still be succesfully applied to SSI… And, for that matter, if there’s a maximum ammount I can be making and still be on SSD. Any help would be appreciated, of course.

2

Check your phonebook. There are lots of law firms that specialize in SS cases that will give you a free consultation.

3

I’d suggest a different section of the phonebook, the one with numbers for government offices.

OTTOMH, SSI and SSD are both federal programs with national standards. Remember that besides income (of any kind-wage, salary, gifts, loans, winnings, gold nuggets you find on the street), any equity you have in real estate or vehicles is also considered. Has your living situation changed? What benefits, if any are you currently receiving?

4

I’m receiving Social Secutiry and when I turn 65 in December I’ll be eligible for SSI.
There are many qestions about this complicated subject and I suggest you get in contact with your local social service agent for correct answers.

5

I used to work for a firm that did a heavy volume of SSI and SSD cases. Talking to the fed gov is a huge pain in the ass. One trip to a lawyer’s office and you’ll find out what you want to know and for free. Then if you don’t feel like giving them their contingency cut try filing the application on your own. But, 9 times out of 10 a lawyer will get you money where you wouldn’t otherwise.

6

This wasn’t my experience. I found the government people quite helpful and the applications simple. And I must have done something right because my husband was okayed the first time.

To the OP: The SS website has lots of information regarding income limits for various programs. I think they have questionnaires that can help. Have you tried looking at those?

7

This questionnaire is a good place to start. My apologies if you’ve already been here:

http://best.ssa.gov