I have been doing some research, and I am just trying to figure some things out... I am currently waiting for my hearing for disablility. I am curious about help with getting a house. I was reading that there are programs out there, helping people get housing, and helping them live on their own. I was wondering if anyone had more information about them. Do you have to be approved for disability before you can get housing help? Also, I was wondering about making $$ until being approved for disability. Do you have to stay under the maximum amount of money allowed while waiting for approval? That is very difficult, I am practically killing myself trying to make money right now, since I can no longer make what I used to. I am only trying to make enough to live, but I can not continue doing this, that is why I am trying to get disability. Do I have to handicap my lifestyle even more while waiting for the hearing? Thanks in advance!

Alison

In order to qualify for either Social Security Disability Insurance benefits (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you cannot be engaged in Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA). SGA is currently has an absolute cutoff of $810.00 per month or more. SGA can also be found when making less than $810.00 per month but will then be dependent on a combination of factors. So working even part time can serve as a basis for a denial of a claim.

As far as housing assistance is concerned, you will need to apply with your local housing authority, here again, income matters as eligibility as well as rent share is dependent on income (as well as assets). You do not need to be receiving disability in order to be eligible for housing assistance. Hope this helps.

So, how do I live between now and then? I can not survive not working at all. I can make sure only to get $810/month (before taxes?) now that I know, but since I did not the first month, will that hurt me? How long does the $810 have to be for? I am also getting a work comp settlement (not that much...), is that going to hurt me too?? Thanks...

Alison

If you are talkling about SSDI or Title II benefits then unearned income (such as WC settlements) should not affect your eligibility (can effect amounts). b As to survival many are able to do so with the help of family and friends. Others have to go to shelters. It is by no means easy for the vast majority of applicants.

Unfortunately, not too many people seriously plan for their death or serious disabilitiy and are simply not prepared at the outset to deal with the problems associated with a sudden onset of disability. You should be checking with your state's dept. of human resources or whatever they call themselves to apply for each and every program for which you may be eligible. These include food stamps, medicaid, general assistance, other medical insurance plans, prescription assistance, etc. You sahould also check and sign up for your local city and county housing authorities.

And yes, unfortunately, most claimants have to handicap their lifestyles in order to survive the process. Bottom line, if you can work, do so. If you cannot work, then apply for disability. Good Luck.

Thanks. Now, if I CAN work, but only part time, what does that mean I am going for? How does WC effect that? Thanks for all your help, this is all new to me. I will start calling places tomorrow to see what I can qualify for... will work comp or my part time job effect that?

Thanks!

Alison