If you’re applying for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you may be looking at other opportunities for government assistance either at the federal, state, or local level.
You also might be wondering if being on another government program can affect your application for SSI or SSDI. The short answer is, in most cases, it won’t. In fact, eligibility and approval for SSI or SSDI may automatically qualify you for additional government assistance.
Medicaid Eligibility
In Oregon, you automatically qualify for Medicaid if you are eligible for SSI payments. There are additional options available for low-cost health insurance for children as well.
However, Social Security will begin reducing your SSI cash benefit if you begin working. Once your cash benefit is eliminated entirely due to working, you become what’s called 1619b-eligible and maintain Medicaid eligibility until your earnings exceed more than $34,591 after work incentive utilization or your assets exceed the limit of $2,000 ($3,000 for a married couple).
If you’re an Oregonian who has earned too much and no longer qualifies for SSI, you can apply to a special Medicaid buy-in program called the Employed Persons with Disabilities (EPD) program. This could allow you to stay on Medicaid if you’re approved.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
Local Social Security Administration (SSA) offices can help qualified applicants fill out their SNAP applications and some members can even re-certify at the office as opposed to sending in a new application.
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
TANF households can receive benefits, but they’re only payable to the blind or disabled adult or child, or adult member over 65 years old.
While this is not an exhaustive list, it does show that you can qualify for other government programs while receiving SSI or SSDI benefits. In any case, it’s important to discuss your options with a qualified Social Security claims attorney and the team at Drew L. Johnson, P.C. is here to help. Call us today at (541) 434-6466 to schedule a free consultation.
