Question about that "lump sum" - Disabilities Message Board

Jem58 · 08-24-2009, 03:19 AM

It's my understanding that, if I am approved for SSI, that I'll get a lump sum. My attorney gets his share, and whatever else happens. I know when a person is on SSI, they can only have $2,000 in the bank (or $3,000 for a couple). How is this worked out? Do I still get the money or does good ole' Uncle Sam take it?

GracefulOne · 08-29-2009, 04:53 AM

I would believe you would be able to keep your 'lump sum' as it is considered back pay for the number of months you've waited to be approved. Unfortunately if you rec'd any type of payments from your employer for disability you will most likely have to pay the lump sum back to them.

Alexa3 · 08-29-2009, 07:23 AM

I think you will also have to spend it down to under $3,000 otherwise you will lose your SSI and medicaid. At least that is what I read.

armyofone0508 · 08-29-2009, 08:57 PM

they give you like 9 months to get it under the limit, that's what i read

mscat40 · 08-30-2009, 02:06 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jem58

It's my understanding that, if I am approved for SSI, that I'll get a lump sum. My attorney gets his share, and whatever else happens. I know when a person is on SSI, they can only have $2,000 in the bank (or $3,000 for a couple). How is this worked out? Do I still get the money or does good ole' Uncle Sam take it?

For SSI , my understanding is that Social Security does not pay backpay out in one lump sum anymore. They changed it , into what is called installments. depending on what is owed back to you, Social Security will set it up every such and such months and pay it out this way. Not in a lump sum. However, if it is not a huge amount , and you are awarded your claim right away, then you would be paid accordingly, and have a certain time period to spend down the money.