Can I receive both SSI and SSDI in South Carolina?
By Hogan Smith
Updated 07/22/2025
If you’re disabled and living in South Carolina, you might wonder if you can receive both Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits at the same time. The good news is that it’s possible to qualify for both programs if you meet their separate eligibility requirements. This is known as receiving “concurrent benefits.”
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1. Understanding SSI and SSDI
What Is SSDI?
- SSDI is a program for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes for a required number of years.
- It provides benefits based on your earnings record, not financial need.
- To qualify, you must have a disability that prevents substantial gainful activity for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death.
What Is SSI?
- SSI is a needs-based program providing monthly payments to disabled individuals with limited income and resources, even if they haven’t worked enough to qualify for SSDI.
- In South Carolina, the federal SSI benefit in 2025 is up to $943 per month for individuals, plus a small optional state supplement in some cases.
- SSI counts income and resources, so eligibility depends on your overall financial situation.
2. How Concurrent Benefits Work
You may qualify for both SSI and SSDI if:
- Your SSDI payment is low enough that you still meet SSI income limits.
- For example, if your SSDI benefit is less than the SSI monthly maximum, SSI will supplement your SSDI payment up to the SSI benefit limit after considering countable income deductions.
3. Benefits of Receiving Both
Receiving both SSI and SSDI can:
- Increase your total monthly income
- Automatically qualify you for Medicaid through SSI and Medicare through SSDI (note that Medicare eligibility starts after 24 months of SSDI entitlement)
- Provide added financial stability, especially if your SSDI alone is low due to minimal work credits or a history of part-time work
4. Factors That May Affect Your Concurrent Eligibility
- Any additional income from work or other sources may reduce your SSI payment.
- Your countable resources must remain below SSI’s limits ($2,000 for individuals or $3,000 for couples).
- Changes in your SSDI amount, living arrangements, or household income should be reported to SSA promptly to avoid overpayments.
5. How to Apply for Concurrent Benefits
When you apply for disability benefits with SSA:
- Your application will automatically be reviewed for both SSI and SSDI eligibility.
- Submit full information about your
work history, income, and resources to ensure accurate assessment.
How Hogan Smith Can Help
At Hogan Smith, we assist South Carolina clients by:
- Reviewing your income and assets to determine SSI eligibility alongside SSDI
- Guiding you through the concurrent benefits application process to maximize your monthly support
- Handling SSA communications and appeals, ensuring your benefits are processed correctly and efficiently
Contact Hogan Smith Today
If you want to understand your eligibility for both SSI and SSDI in South Carolina or need help applying for benefits, contact Hogan Smith today for a free consultation. We’ll ensure you access every benefit you’re entitled to for your financial security and peace of mind.
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