If you currently use Social Security Disability (SSD) or wish to obtain Supplemental Security Income (SSI) to boost your income in the future, there is some good news. In 2019, the amount paid out in SSD or SSI will increase. It’s not a minuscule increase, either.
According to an Oct. 12 disability news release, the Social Security Administration (SSA) stated that payments will go up by 2.8 percent in 2019. This is a result of an automatic cost-of-living adjustment, but it’s great news for people who don’t expect to see their costs increase much, if at all.
How much will you receive following the changes in Social Security?
It’s expected that individuals receiving SSI will receive $771 each month. This year, the maximum is $750. Couples who receive SSI will see an increase from $1,125 to $1,157. This has been the largest increase in SSI since 2012 when there was a 3.6 percent increase.
If you rely on SSD or SSI, the adjustments made for cost-of-living increases should be a great help. If you have not yet been approved for SSD or SSI, it’s a good idea to start early. You’ll need to gather documents identifying your disability and explaining your circumstances.
Although people are sometimes unable to get SSD or SSI during an initial application, your attorney can help you file and give you the best shot at an approval upon your first application or he or she can help with an appeal of a denial. With an approved application, you can begin receiving the SSD, and potentially SSI, that you need to feel comfortable in your life.