Do Spouses’ Incomes Factor Into Social Security Disability Decisions?

The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program provides compensation for eligible elderly or disabled individuals’ basic needs. For this particular program, a spouse’s income may influence the amount of benefits to which an applicant is entitled.

The application takes into consideration “deemed income,” including the income of a spouse, parent, or sponsor with which the applicant shares a home, along with any other sources of “countable income.” If this totals above a certain amount, you will not be entitled to any SSI compensation. However, deemed income will not affect your case if you are no longer living with your spouse.

On the other hand, deemed income does not have any weight on a person’s application for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. This amount is based on taxes you paid throughout your previous working history and is not contingent on your spouse’s work history or income.

The expert Social Security team of Jan Dils Attorneys at Law, can help you determine whether, in your specific case, your spouse’s income will affect your application for SSI or SSDI.

If you believe you qualify for either of these programs and have questions about the process or feel your claim has been wrongfully denied, call us at 877.526.3457 to schedule a free initial consultation today.