I have applied for SSD, so your saying I could draw SSI while waiting on my SSD to be approved . Would my SSD check be of a lesser amount because of me drawing SSI? Is there a spouse benefit for SSI!

Hi. No, drawing Supplemental Security Income (SSI) wouldn't have any adverse effect on your Social Security disability (SSDI) benefits. SSI is a needs based benefit for people who are disabled, blind or at least age 65. There are no auxiliary or survivor benefits payable to family members of a person on SSI. SSI payments only go to the eligible individual themselves.

SSI payments are only intended to supplement any other income that an eligible individual has. If you're approved for SSDI benefits, once those benefits start being paid they will offset your SSI payments roughly dollar for dollar.

Best, Jerry