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DOES MY INCOME MATTER IN A DISABILITY CLAIM?

Does it matter how much money you have in the bank or how much monthly income you have when filing a disability claim?  Read our answer carefully.

Whether income matters or not depends on what type of claim you intend to file.

No, it does not matter how much money you have for a regular Title 2 disability or SSDI claim.  Disability claims under Title 2 are not means tested.  You do not have to be poor or have limited income to qualify.  However, you may not be working and earning wages that are above Substantial Gainful Activity (presently $1,090 per month).  It is the work, not the income that is disqualifying.  Simply put, you cannot be disabled and working at SGA level at the same time under Title 2 or SSDI regulations.  For example, a person may be medically disabled, but if he is working full-time he would not qualify for SSDI benefits because of the work.

Yes, household income does matter if you are filing an SSI claim, also known as Title XVI.  SSI is a program designed for individuals or families with very low income and very limited financial resources.  Your local Social Security office can tell you how much income and resources you are allowed to have with an SSI claim.  

SSDI and SSI are very different programs and the regulations are different for each program. The medical requirements for SSDI and SSI are the same.  It is the financial requirements that are different.

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