HI
have a question here about income tax refund-
beings I worked part of last year, I got my income tax return back just the other day - am I suppose to report this to social security or do they already know ? (by computer)
I was awarded disability in feb of this year..
thanks
GraN

Gran,
Again, it depends whether you are getting SSI or SSDI... and it appears that is something you still aren't sure of. Have you tried calling social security and asking them outright which benefits you are receiving? The funds would need to be reported if you are getting SSI but not if you're getting SSDI.
--kaylbe

HI kaylbe
I am getting SSI
so I have to report it,,,thanks :)
also if I was getting SSDI why wouldn't I have to report it ??
I don't understand..
THX
GraN

Gran,

SSI and SSDI are two different disability programs. SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) is insurance, SSI (Supplemental Security Income) is welfare.

Since SSDI is insurance, you qualify for it if you meet the definition of disabled and have worked enough quarters and paid into the system. If you become disabled, you file a claim to collect your insurance benefits. The "insurance company" just happens to be the Social Security Administration. Because SSDI is insurance, they don't care about your finances or assets. You're entitled to the benefits because you have "purchased" the insurance through your payroll taxes. Think of it like making a claim with your auto insurance. You've paid your premiums, your car is damaged, you make the claim, they pay. The insurance company doesn't care if you are living in poverty or if you have a million dollars in the bank.

SSI, as I stated above, is welfare. It's payed for by tax dollars to help disabled people who have very little money or other assets. Since the amount of money and assets you own is a part of qualifying for the program, any changes could mean that you are no longer entitled to receive benefits. That's why you must report changes to your income and assets. If you fail to do so and continue to receive benefits you are no longer entitled to, you will have to pay the funds back at the very least. They could also press charges against you for fraud.

I'm glad that you found out which program you are covered under. Although both SSDI and SSI require that you meet the same definition of disability, they are otherwise very different programs and are governed by different rules and regulations. It's hard to answer a question like "Do I have to report income", without knowing which program you're covered by.

Hope this helps.

--kaylbe