There’s nothing more excited than getting married to the love of your life. If you’re planning on tying the knot, it’s important to take a break from planning your wedding to learn how getting married can affect your Social Security disability benefits. Here’s what you should know:
Will Getting Married Affect Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Benefits?
Getting married may impact your SSI benefits, but it depends on your spouse’s income. Why? SSI benefits are only awarded to low-income individuals with limited financial resources. This year, the income limit for the SSI program is $771 for individuals and $1,157 for couples. If you earn more than this per month, you are not eligible for SSI benefits.
Let’s say you are eligible for SSI benefits because you earn less than $771 per month on your own. But, your spouse earns $1,000 per month, which means your monthly income will increase to $1,771 after you are legally married. This income is above the $1,157 limit, which means you would no longer qualify for benefits once you are married.
It’s important to note that the SSA does not factor in all of your income when determining whether or not you qualify for these benefits. For example, the SSA will deduct $65 of your wages and $20 of other income every month when calculating your total monthly income. It’s best to ask an attorney for help when figuring out whether or not you will still qualify for SSI benefits after getting married.
Will Getting Married Affect Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) Benefits?
SSDI benefits are awarded to disabled individuals who have earned enough work credits to qualify for this program. If you have been approved for SSDI because of a disability, getting married will not affect your benefits. However, marriage can affect your monthly payments if you are receiving benefits on someone else’s record.
For example, let’s say you are receiving benefits on your ex-spouse’s record. If you choose to marry someone else, you will no longer qualify for benefits on your former spouse’s record. People who are receiving payments on their deceased spouse’s record or deceased ex-spouse’s record will also lose benefits if they decide to remarry.
Getting married can lead to a lot of changes. Before you tie the knot, make sure you understand how this decision will affect your disability benefits.
Are you disabled? If so, let the experienced attorneys at Armstrong & Vaught, P.L.C. help you secure the benefits you deserve. We work closely with our clients throughout the application process to ensure they are awarded benefits as quickly as possible. Call us at (918) 582-2500 or toll-free at (800) 722-8880 or complete the simple form below for a free consultation with a skilled attorney.
5 FAQs About How Marriage Can Affect Social Security Disability Benefits:
1. Will getting married affect my Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits?
Yes, marriage can affect your SSI benefits because eligibility is based on household income and resources. If your combined income with your spouse exceeds the SSI limits for couples, you may lose eligibility or see a reduction in benefits.
2. What is the income limit for married couples receiving SSI?
As of this year, the income limit for SSI is $1,157 per month for couples. If your combined income exceeds this amount (after certain deductions), you may no longer qualify for SSI.
3. Will marriage impact my Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits?
If you receive SSDI based on your own work record, getting married does not affect your benefits. However, if you receive benefits based on a spouse’s, ex-spouse’s, or deceased spouse’s record, marriage may disqualify you from receiving those benefits.
4. Can I still get benefits if I remarry after my spouse passes away?
If you receive survivor’s benefits from a deceased spouse or ex-spouse, remarrying before age 60 (or before age 50 if you’re disabled) may cause you to lose those benefits. Remarrying after age 60 typically does not affect your eligibility.
5. Should I talk to a lawyer before getting married if I’m receiving disability benefits?
Yes. Since marriage can significantly affect your eligibility—especially for SSI—it’s wise to speak with an attorney who understands Social Security rules and can help you make informed decisions about your benefits.