Whether you have applied for SSI benefits with an SSI Attorney near Orange, CA, or you’ve been approved and are receiving benefits, you may be wondering how your current or future marriage may affect your benefits. The SSI application and the hearing processes can be long, complex, and scary, and we are here to help you through it all no matter your circumstances. If you are married or are soon to be married, don’t hesitate to reach out to one of our experienced lawyers to see how this will fit into your exact situation.
Can Marriage Affect My SSI Eligibility?
Marriage itself does not affect your eligibility for SSI benefits, but rather your spouse’s income level has the opportunity to make you ineligible for benefits, or to reduce your benefits relative to your income amount. The process of determining how a spouse’s income may affect your benefits is a complex process and requires the help of an SSI Attorney near Orange, CA.
Deeming Spousal Income
If you are married and your husband or wife makes an income, the SSI program may “deem” some of their income to be available to you. This especially comes into play if your husband or wife makes a large income. If your spouse makes a sizeable income, and his or her income is determined to be available for your use, it can lower your SSI payment or even make you ineligible for SSI benefits altogether.
The SSA has a very complex method of deeming a spouse’s income. To estimate how much of your husband, wife, or partner’s income will be deemed to you, contact your SSI Attorneys near Orange, CA.
Who Is Considered a Spouse in The SSI Program?
You are considered to be married by the SSI program for the purpose of deeming income if you are legally married and are living together. In some cases, if you are living with a partner and not legally married, but interact with the community as husband and wife, your boyfriend or girlfriend’s income may be deemed to you.
If you enter into a Domestic Partnership or Civil Union and receive SSI, you are only affected if you and your partner live together. The SSA could potentially lower your monthly payment, depending on if your new partner helps pay for food or housing expenses.
Your SSI Attorney Near Orange, CA
If you’re still unsure about how to navigate your SSI benefits journey, with or without a spouse, we are here to help. Contact our team today to see what we can do for you.
