Confusion over SSDI......

[meg321]

Hi, I haven't beeen around a lot lately, just  got busy.  I am applying for SSDI and have been to my MS Dr. got information from the MS Society, and have an appt on Dec 2nd to help me complete complete the application.

Then I recieve an email from  MS Society stating the following....

"Dear Nadine,

Thank you for contacting the National MS Society.  We appreciate your email.

If I understand our notes correctly, your nurse has instructed you to apply for SSDI, but you are already receiving Social Security since you are over the age of 65.  To clarify, SSDI is Social Security Disability Insurance, and is for those who need to access their Social Security early because they are no longer able to work as a result of their disability.

Since you are already collecting Social Security, we do not believe that you will be able to obtain any additional benefits. However, I am glad that you will be speaking with the Social Security Administration on December 2nd, as they will be able to provide you with more information about your eligibility."

What does anyone else think about this?

thanks, meg

[meg321]

I don't qualifiy for SSDI and i make too much for supplemental income..I am very aware of this now...It just took me time to figure it out.  And I was so happy to know really..lol

I am cancelling my appt now...but they will talk to me in a sec.

Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving !!!  It was actually my best for a long time.

hugs, meg

[RedFlame]

Meg,  Since SSI is a needs based program as opposed to SSDI the monthly amount is very different.  If your monthly income including other social security payments total less that $790.00 for a single person then you might qualify for SSI.

I know it is so confusing with all the different programs.  You have to be so incredibly lower than the poverty level it's pathetic.  A person can't really 'live'.  

I'm sorry it is so difficult!

Red

[Lulu54]

Meg, at least talk to them at the appointmnet and make sure there is not something else you are eligible for that has been overlooked.

[Sumanadevii]

Meg, don't give up the appointment.  If you are receiving SSDI and need a supplement to that for living, you are eligible for that help.  Let them decide if your income is too high.  Normally without another bread earner in the home, you will need SSI to get by....Unless you topped out on SSDI with a high paying job over the years.

[meg321]

Hi , thanks for the responses, i am not doing this.  After all this i figured it out..why noone tells me before hand i will never know.

But I am always so confused, its quite frustrating......

meg

[Lulu54]

Meg,
I believe the SSDI is meant to take care of you if you lose the ability to work and it provides some financial assistance in lieu of a paycheck.  I am unsure of the guidelines of SSI.  

If you are already getting your Social Security monthly check, that would probably be in place of an SSDI check.

Your best bet is to keep that appointment and meet with the experts to discuss what does and does not apply to your situation.

Lulu

[Sumanadevii]

It's a federal program...It is supplemental.  It provides cash to meet basic needs of food, clothing and shelter.  It is based on income.  You can receive both SSDI and SSI if necessary.

[meg321]

Was that for State or Federal Disability..i am applying for Social Security Benefits from the  Fed. gov't..that also confuses me.

thanks, meg

[Sumanadevii]

A link that will explain

http://www.socialsecurity.gov/ssi/text-benefits-ussi.htm

[Sumanadevii]

It is probably because the nurse is thinking of Supplemental Security Income and not SSDI.