If I apply for disability will they cut my husband's disability?People are often confused with the issue of applying for disability while a spouse is receiving disability. By and large, most people believe that a spouse's disability will be cut if they apply for disability and are approved. There are great differences between SSI and SSDI when it comes to a married couple both applying for and being approved for disability benefits. We can use the example of a husband who is receiving disability benefits and who has a spouse who wishes to apply for disability as well. If the husband is receiving SSDI, it does not matter if his wife files and gets approved for disability benefits. Social Security will not cut his benefits. SSDI entitlement is based solely upon one's work activity prior to their becoming disabled; consequently there are no income or resource limits. This means that each spouse can receive his or her full disability separate and apart from the other with no adverse effect. On the other hand, SSI disability is a need based disability program that is subject to both income and resource limits. If a couple decides to file for SSI disability they cannot each receive their full SSI benefit amount, because there is a couples limit. The 2019 couples limit is $1157.00 per month, while the full individual SSI amount is $771.00 per month. As you can see, a married couple sharing the same household would receive less than two individuals sharing a residence paying their fair share (splitting the bills) of the common household bills. In conclusion, it may or may not cut your spouse disability benefits if you apply and are approved for disability. However, it is a net gain to household income even if you are both entitled to SSI rather than SSDI. About the Author: Tim Moore is a former Social Security Disability Examiner in North Carolina, has been interviewed by the NY Times and the LA Times on the disability system, and is an Accredited Disability Representative (ADR) in North Carolina. For assistance on a disability application or Appeal in NC, click here. Most popular topics on SSDRC.com Social Security Disability in North Carolina Common Mistakes to avoid after being denied for Disability Tips to Prepare for Filing for Social Security Disability or SSI Advice to Win SSD and SSI Benefit Claims Social Security Disability SSI Questions What is the difference between Social Security Disability and SSI? How to get disability for depression Getting disability for fibromyalgia SSI disability for children with ADHD What is the Application Process for Social Security Disability and SSI? Social Security Disability SSI Exam tips More Social Security Disability SSI Questions What makes you eligible for Social Security Disability or SSI? Related pages: Will I qualify for disability if I tried to go back to work? How many hours can you work if you are receiving Social Security Disability? Will you need a disability attorney if you have a mental condition? Should I hire a disability lawyer? An SSI Reconsideration decision Why was my Social Security Disability check reduced? Can you collect your retirement and Social Security Disability? How does your work history affect a claim for disability? What about assets if you file for Disability? Social Security Disability in North Carolina Must be for a Severe Condition Medical records for SSD or SSI disability application To be Awarded Disability Benefits in North Carolina, How Severe Does Your Condition Need to Be? Can I apply for disability at age 62? |
