How Marriage Can Affect Social Security Disability (SSDI) Benefits

If you are receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, getting married typically won’t affect your monthly payments. SSDI is based on your work history and your ability to work due to a disability, so your benefits are generally not impacted by your marital status.

However, if your spouse works and earns a significant income, it might affect your ability to qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which is needs-based. In that case, your spouse's income and assets will be considered when determining your eligibility for SSI benefits.

How Marriage Can Affect Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Benefits

SSI benefits are needs-based, meaning they are designed for individuals with limited income and resources. When you marry, your spouse’s income and assets will be considered in your eligibility for SSI benefits. If your spouse earns too much money or has significant assets, you may lose your SSI benefits or see a reduction in the amount you receive.

How to Maintain Your Benefits After Marriage

If you are receiving SSI and are concerned about how marriage will affect your benefits, here are some important things to consider:

• Income Limits: The SSA has specific income limits for SSI recipients. If your spouse's income exceeds those limits, you may no longer qualify for SSI.
• Resources: In addition to income, the SSA also considers your combined resources (assets). If the total resources of both you and your spouse exceed the limit, you may lose SSI eligibility.
• Report Changes: When you get married, it’s crucial to report the change to the SSA. You’ll need to provide information about your spouse’s income, resources, and other relevant details.
• Spousal Benefits: If you are receiving SSDI and your spouse is eligible for Social Security benefits, your spouse may be entitled to spousal benefits. These benefits are based on your work record, but they are not contingent on your marital status.

Can My Spouse’s Income Affect My SSDI Benefits?

No, your spouse’s income does not affect your SSDI benefits. SSDI is not means-tested, so as long as you qualify based on your disability, your spouse’s financial situation will not impact your eligibility or benefit amount.

Will My Children’s Benefits Be Affected by Marriage?

If you are receiving benefits for your children due to your disability, marriage typically will not affect their benefits. However, if your new spouse has children of their own who may be eligible for benefits, there could be considerations for their eligibility based on household income and family resources.

What Happens If I Remarry?

If you are already receiving Social Security benefits and decide to remarry, the impact on your benefits depends on several factors, including whether you’re receiving Social Security Disability or SSI. For SSDI recipients, remarriage typically doesn’t affect your benefits. However, remarriage could impact your eligibility for SSI, depending on your spouse’s income and resources.

How to Ensure You Don’t Lose Your Benefits

To ensure you don’t lose your Social Security benefits after marriage:

• Understand how marriage impacts your eligibility for SSDI and SSI.
• Report your marriage to the SSA to avoid complications.
• Track your combined income and assets to avoid exceeding limits.
• Seek professional advice if you’re unsure about how marriage will affect your benefits.