Being married won’t affect SSI benefits you are already receiving but a new spouse who has an income will likely reduce your monthly benefit payment or even make you ineligible to receive benefits. The Social Security Administration calls this type of benefits adjustment “deeming spousal income“. When two people marry and both are receiving SSI benefits, SSA will reduce the couple’s benefits amount by granting eligibility rates to the person making less SSI.

 

 

How Does Having a Work Record Affect SSDI Benefits for Married Couples?

 

If someone remained employed long enough to qualify for SSDI benefits, then a new marriage will not impact their payments. Social Security disability (insurance) does not have set asset or income limits like Supplemental Security Income (SSI) has. Recipients of SSDI benefits are insured payments (if they are eligible) because they have accumulated enough work credits by paying FICA social security taxes. You must be less than 65 years old to qualify for SSDI. In addition, SSDI recipients automatically qualify for Medicare after receiving SSDI benefits for two years, regardless of their age.

 

Does Being in a Domestic Partnership Affect SSDI or SSI Benefits?

 

Disability benefits are not affected when two people participate in a civil union or domestic partnership if the benefits received are SSDI benefits, survivors benefits or adult child benefits. However, when one partner is receiving SSI benefits, the SSA may lower monthly payments if the new partner is paying for housing and food expenses. Social Security considers this “in-kind income“.

 

If you are receiving SSDI or SSI benefits and plan to get married, consult with a London Eligibility attorney when re-applying for benefits to ensure you do not inadvertently compromise your benefits. We may also be able to help you retain your benefits if SSA threatens to lower or eliminate your monthly benefits.