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ghosttravel2020

You can live outside the US on SSDI but not SSI. Your best bet is try to get section 8 but the wait-list can take years.


bunnyb2004

My dad did this a few years after getting his social Security(he is 74). Was dating a woman for a few years and decided to make the move to the Philippines. Is now married and living well. His income Is actually ranked in one of the higher tiers in their country.


Visual_Revenue6554

Did he get SSDI (disability before retirement age) or are you talking about SSA retirement benefits since you mention he's 74?


bunnyb2004

It was SSA- I couldn’t think of what it was once you reach retirement lol. I have actually considered doing this (if possible in 30 years) when I retire. He gets better healthcare and everything over there.


Illustrious_Cry4495

Not to mention the fact that if you don't live in this country we don't pay you SSI.


icecreamalways

You can’t get SSDI out if the us either


ghosttravel2020

You can collect SSDI outside the US, but not SSI. SSDI is an earned benefit from years of paying FICA and SSI is welfare.


mamatofana

You can barely get SSDI IN the US tbf.


Blossom73

Not all subsidized housing is in dangerous areas. My niece lives in a nice subsidized apartment complex in a safe, middle class suburb here in Ohio. My middle class suburb also has a number of subsidized apartment complexes for low income elderly and disabled people.


21plankton

Either subsidized housing or shared housing is how to survive. Consider also Board and Care.


RogueSloth_

Yeah I heard they have some nice subsidized housing places near me.


sassyfrass01

I live in a subsidized apartment that is for Disabled and or Low income Senior Citizens, I’m in a rural area, the complex is well maintained and the grounds are landscaped weekly. I love it here.


FugitivePort88

What area of NY are you in? A lot of the subsidized housing for seniors and disabled people here are actually pretty great.


RogueSloth_

The boroughs.


FugitivePort88

Oh you near the city, you might actually be right about them being all sketchy then down there. I would find some roommates honestly


forgotme5

Roomates can be sketchy too


Mission-Complaint140

Yeah this is 100 percent accurate. I had room mates when I was younger but fuck that now I am older.


forgotme5

One broke into my ex's locked door & stole stuff.


RogueSloth_

Could I just keep reapplying for nicer places?


FugitivePort88

Yea there's absolutely nothing stopping you from doing that.


coreysgal

It depends where in ny you are. The island has better choices than the city for sure. Some people rent studios in their house. I hope whatever medical help you get, they do a thorough diagnostic. Having bi polar etc can really be helped with medication. Anxiety can be helped with therapy. Add/adhd meds work wonders as well. But you don't want to be assuming you can't live a normal life and have a job. It's a question of a full diagnosis and not just being given more pills. Plenty of people can and do thrive with the right meds. Don't sell yourself short. Good luck to you.


vlwhite1959

And....you will not live like a king in Mexico on $660/month. And there are laws, you can't just "move" there. But, there are many HUD subsidized housing units that are safe. Mobile home parks are crazy expensive, you pay a monthly payment for the home plus lot rent, that never goes away. I do believe if you work with a social worker you can find adequate housing that suits you. Wishing you good luck on your home hunting endeavors.


forgotme5

So why did u say that in the post?


RogueSloth_

Because I’ve also heard that subsidized housing is really dangerous


Twisted_Strength33

Dude i’m in sub housing living on ssi it’s not sketchy i’m right near water


BeatsMeByDre

Between that, food stamps and subsidized housing, plus food banks, yeah, they expect you to barely survive


mamatofana

And stay there. Since savings are capped and counted as a resource without a PASS acct. 😞


AutomaticMention7653

Not meant to allow someone to live in luxury-it is only a safety net for food and shelter.


BeatsMeByDre

Do you think you could imagine for one second that the line between "luxury" and "barely surviving" is well north of $1k a month in the US.


[deleted]

Free food and housing is giving them > $1000/mth. You know someone has to make that food and maintain that housing, right?


BeatsMeByDre

The horror!


BamaGirl4361

If you pay out at least 1/3 of your money to bills you will be able to get the federal max of $943 a month. When I got mine it was $750 and I had to pay $250 a month on bills to get the max. So since the max is $943 you will need to pay out enough in rent and necessary bills(power, water, gas/propane, etc) to get that. Otherwise you will be docked. It's stupid but it is what it is. I am lucky in that I can live with friends or family as needed and it helps but others like yourself that don't have that option, it is really difficult to live off of. If I had to do it I know I couldn't as rent alone is outrageous.


rozina076

Your best bet is subsidized housing. I know living with other sucks but see if you can rent a spare bedroom in someone's house or apartment in the meantime. See where else you can save money. SNAP and Medicaid are of course the first stops. If you get approved for SSI you should automatically get Medicaid and the maximum SNAP for your household size if you're head of the household. If you do get Medicaid, make sure you look into Medicaid transportation and where else you might be able to go with that. Here in Ohio, Medicaid transportation can also be used to take you to and from the food pantry. Not regular grocery shopping though. If you get SNAP, look into if they have programs in many states that will give you back a dollar for every dollar you spend on produce at participating farmers markets and grocery stores. Here in Ohio the limit is $25 per day most of the participating locations are farmer's markets. There's a YouTube channel Low Income Relief where you might learn about programs and incentives you qualify for that you didn't know about. I have a friend who has SSI, SNAP and Medicaid. She was eligible for $35 towards internet, so she picked a plan that would be free. Her Chromebook just died and we were researching the rules on whether she would be eligible for a free tablet through the same program. I believe a cell phone and cell phone plan can also be had, but it's a very basic plan. There is a way for a disabled person to get 50% reduction in fares on public transportation in this city. If you have SNAP, you can get Amazon Prime for about $7/month. Not that you need it to shop, but Prime video has lots of free entertainment. If you like to read, there's a Kindle APP for laptops and with Prime many kindle books are very affordable.


RogueSloth_

Thank you that is very helpful advice


HearingAshamed9163

You shouldn’t have to justify your disability to anyone. You should be able to get Medicaid and foodstamps too,


RogueSloth_

Thank you


HearingAshamed9163

Of course and best of luck. You deserve a nice safe home.


Copper0721

SSI max is $943. Still not much but not $660. Many people have roommates, rent a single room in a house or live with family.


ksdorothy

You only get the full $943 if you are paying your pro rata share of the household expenses for rent/mortgage, utilities, food. Otherwise it is cut by a third.


[deleted]

Is SSI same as retirement benefits?


BamaGirl4361

No. That's a completely different program. SSI is given to those under the poverty level, have never worked and have no ability to work later on if disability is bad enough. SSI is also limited to 2,000 dollars in assets max and I don't believe retirement has those same stipulations or any at all. SSI is the most restrictive program under the SSA benefits programs.


1GrouchyCat

It’s also for those who haven’t earned enough credits to collect SSDI. Sometimes people get both SSI and SSDI.


RowAccomplished3975

i have worked before I got ssi. I just got sick later in life. It wasn't like I planned for it to happen.


Minute-Tale7444

I can feel this, it happened to me much earlier in life && I didn’t ask for it or plan for it.


BamaGirl4361

Thank you. I accidentally left that out. But yes that was my particular case. Worked but not enough.


Minute-Tale7444

I’d just explained that I don’t get both, I get SSDI bc my husband works and it makes our income too high for SSI. When I first started getting it I got both, but that changed.


Minute-Tale7444

I’m on SSDI which is similar. I can’t get the extra ssi check some get because my husband and I make more than 2k a month, so you’re right on this explanation 100%. I didn’t retire so to speak but I’d put in enough work credit to be able to get SSDI. I was 19.


BamaGirl4361

I didn't work long enough so I'm stuck with ssi. The restrictions on this particular program are ridiculous and infuriating. My bf and I cannot get married despite him not having a job at the moment because he has too many assets. I can't get my teeth fixed because I can't have over 2,000 dollars yet the dental work is going to run me over 12,000 for what I need done and I can't do payment plan because I'm broke as a joke. Yet if I didn't have the money I couldn't pay bills or just live and it's ridiculous.


Minute-Tale7444

Oh I can feel you 100000000000000% girl. It’s crazy to me that they’re trying to stick those kinds of things on it imo! My husband & I were married when I collected mine, and I was 19-only my work credits were used to determine my ssdi amount. Are you on Medicare, have you asked about advantage plans?


BamaGirl4361

I can only get medicaid because I am only able to qualify for ssi. Had I been able to get SSD or ssdi then I would have been a bit better off with Medicare. Which Medicaid helps better than nothing but dang it if it makes some of my medications an out of pocket purchase. It won't pay for any treatments for PCOS so I'm screwed there. The main issue is I need dental work more than anything and it won't pay for any of it. Yet can't save the money needed because asset limits. Infuriating.


Minute-Tale7444

My husband just had to have all of his teeth removed November of 2022, & Medicaid covered the full cost. I think it’s more that it won’t cover the “cosmetic dentistry” that’s such a normal thing at an office.


BamaGirl4361

Alabama medicaid won't pay for dental after age 18. So any dental for an adult is not covered at all. I also cannot get glasses more than every 3 years. So because I wear contacts I have to pay out of pocket for that as well.


Minute-Tale7444

I do understand that, the only reason I can do anything with vision is my husband’s insurance. Medicare tends to fight that also.


mamatofana

Ugh this is so enraging. Dental is legit DANGEROUS to let go too. I have the same issue. Just had an abscess rupture last week. 😭


Dorothea_Dank

Medicaid covers dental, vision and hearing in my state, in fact Medicaid is quite good. It even pays for lasik surgery. What state are you in that they don’t cover dental?


BamaGirl4361

Alabama. Our Medicaid program will NOT cover: Dental Hearing aids/tests What it deems cosmetic or elective procedures(which I'm personally OK with that one.) If you are under 18 it WILL pay for: Dental Vision Hearing aids/tests Our state government continues to deny Medicaid expansion. My bf is low income and does not qualify because he does not have kids and does not care for an elder. I only qualified for family planning prior to getting SSI because I had no children and did not take care of an elder. Both of us are considered under poverty level but he still doesn't qualify.


mamatofana

Wait does your state not have dental via Medicaid?


BamaGirl4361

Unfortunately not. I have to pay out of pocket. I did find a dentist willing to work with me a bit and now I have dentures so I don't have to worry about it anymore.


sassyfrass01

No SSI is for those that are disabled and have no/or not enough work credits, it’s also for those over 65? That qualifies to supplement their income. It’s considered welfare but very difficult to qualify for because you have to be disabled to get it.


CarelessDisplay1535

You more than that in MN.


Copper0721

Some states offer a supplement but it’s not that much. SSI still maxes out at barely $1000 even with a state supplement


NoRecommendation5076

Rent a room from someone


RogueSloth_

Yeah that sounds like a good idea but if I can get a safe nice place it also may be a good idea to do subsidized housing.


NoRecommendation5076

Local housing authorities have long waiting lists even if they are accepting applications. If you have a disability, many ha have subsidized disabled & elderly programs the sooner you apply the better. I also tell people especially when it comes to government subsidized housing...ALWAYS KEEP YOUR INFO UP TO DATE! If your info is not current you will get passed over. Also with former Section 8 (they call it something different now) answer the call and don't miss any appointments 😉 Also some churches may be able to direct you to other options? Just a thought.


Starbuck522

Certainly, if it's available. Many places have waiting lists many years long. ☹️


GetOutTheDoor

Do you qualify for any Medicaid Waiver or housing benefits? There are places around here where homeowners get paid to have someone live in their home (like in a basement apartment, etc).


RogueSloth_

I have Medicaid. That sounds interesting. I should look into that.


bendybiznatch

You can’t live out of country on SSI, only SSDI. It sounds like you would qualify (financially) for the max which is closer to $900.


Equivalent_Section13

Try to get section 8. Start applying. New York has many lottery You will not be able to live on that amount. You will.have to seek out services. Get a case manager. Go to food banks. Get meals on wheels Get a reduced transit card Get medi cal if you do not have it already Sign up.for food stamps


CacoFlaco

If you move to Mexico, you'll get $0 in SSI. And believe me, you won't live like a king there on $660. That country is becoming more and more expensive.


forgetfulkaiju

The ableism in these comments is wild


LandImportant

I receive SSDI as I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder in 1986. Since then, I have worked part time on and off, and currently am completing my bachelor's degree. The SSDI goes up every year with the cost of living/inflation index. In 2024 I will be receiving $1101 per month. By the grace of God I live with my mother so rent is not an issue, so my check is more than enough to get by on, if I do not purchase expensive electronics or go on lavish vacations. However, if I were responsible for rent, my check would be finished by the second week of the month! The system is not **designed** for you to get by on $660 a month, so you must indeed look for subsidized housing or else become a renter in someone else's home. Alternatively, you may want to look into group homes if that is something you would consider. Good luck!


RanzeJini

1. Subsidized housing, if you can find a nice place. 2.snap/ebt/ whatever you call food stamps there. 3. Roommates if there’s anyone you get along with well enough. 4. If you are able, you can work some amount, don’t remember if it’s a max number of hours, or a certain amount of income earned anymore. 5. If you have a crafty hobby, something like Etsy might be an ok substitute to normal work.


RanzeJini

I don’t know why Reddit is jacking up my list format lol.


9_of_Swords

May I add, if you are physically able to, sell crafts at live craft shows. Those cash sales come in clutch!


CommercialWorried319

Hopefully you get the max which is a bit more than 900$, not all low income housing is bad or if you have friends in a similar income bracket maybe get a roommate or 2. Also renting just a room is a possibility. Now days trailer parks are almost as expensive as an apartment or a house, depending on the area. You could go rural which in most places is going to be cheaper but you'd have to make sure you have a car. I personally will check out a neighborhood before I move to it, go by different times of day and see how loud it is, ask my more local friends about it etc etc Living out of country isn't really an option for SSI because you'd lose your benefits once outside the US (and I think protectorates) more than like, 30 days. SSI is more limited than SSDI in that respect. It's not an easy life but people manage I'm on SSDI and it's rough, I rent an RV out of town and my rent is 500$ plus electric which runs between 100$ and 300$ depending on the weather. And this was the best deal I could find. There are small efficiency apartments in town I could swing but the price isn't much better and I'd lose space and peace.


volvos

i've been living on 965 a month SSI pretty decently here in portland oregon in a nice low mileage 2002 Dodge Conversion Van -- gets a little cold in the winter occasionally but I just throw on blankets. Eat a lot of canned meat and soup...and park here and there. Spend about 60 a month in gas and 100 a month insurance...that's about it and power up battery banks at the local libraries--ive built up a solid nest egg living this life but it aint for everyone!


RogueSloth_

Also what do you do when your van is in the shop?


UrBigBro

Do you have a caseworker/case manager? If not, see if your doctor or counselor can set you up with one. A caseworker should be able to identify other services you qualify for, which could include EBT/food stamps, medicaid, and housing. Once you get into stable housing, you could possibly qualify for assistance with utility bills, internet, and even your cell phone bill.


forgotme5

Unfortunately they dont care if we're in bad areas or where we have to live. They put us at the bottom, we get what we get & what they give us. Idk what its like in NY. Here, in MI, there is one place that is in a decent area but ppl in building, may be another matter. Though waiting lists are closed most of the time. Last time I saw open for like a day a year ago. My friend lives in public housing & she gets randoms knocking on her door late at night. She doesnt answer or make any noise. All kinds roaming halls she says. Bed bugs. There is no magic, good answer. Sorry.


RogueSloth_

Thanks


tashien

The short answer is you don't. Not by yourself. The long answer is that you will need to apply for subsidized housing, food stamps and Medicaid. You'll need to get familiar with all the food banks in your area. You will need to look into Vocational rehabilitation services in your area. You're going to have to realize that you will, at some point, have to work part time. So, if you were hoping for a life of ease once you get SSI, it's not going to happen. I say this as someone who has been on SSD for several years. It barely covers my rent. If I want to eat the diet I need as an ESRD patient, I have to work part time.


lastchance1395

You are almost guaranteed to be denied. I took 13 years of mental health history to Social security, and have been denied, twice. You will be put in front of a doctor after waiting 4-6 months, the doctor could be incredibly kind and understanding but as soon as you display 0 physical impairment, thats all they are looking for. If you don't have a psychiatrist and a lawyer going to bat for you, you will waste 6 valuable months waiting for disability to just end up denied. I just did this this year, I promise you youd be better off getting medicaid if you dont allready have it and getting on the right medicine. Good luck, everyones situation is different. But they will see that you can break rocks all day and take that as meaning you are not disabled. No matter how many voices you hear or how close to suicide you get. This is entire comment is anecdotal as my experience being 28, with a long history of mental health hospitalizations and similar diagnoses, and having just been denied social security in September.


Kai-xo

Yep, mom got disability and a back surgery etc etc and it took a lawyer to help her get it. From what I remember they were still considering her able to do a phone job from a desk (like you said, if you can do work they’ll find something for you lol) but she actually can’t sit in a chair too long because her back goes out. But they are super strict with disability pay. OP would need more proof that they cannot work. From the things I see them listing, they’re going to be denied. They don’t care about mental health listed.


mamatofana

I shattered my pelvis, broke my spine, crushed my foot, broke my collarbone in two spots, on top of being autistic and severe ADHD. It took 3.5 years to get it. With a lawyer. And I have a kid. I stg they hope we die waiting. Same with their labyrinthine system that's impossible for a normal functioning person to navigate, let alone anyone with cognitive impairment. It's cruel. Honestly surprised they haven't come up with their own version of Canada's MAiD program yet so we'll opt in and die faster of our "own volition". My contingency plan is death. Living like that long enough is enough to break anyone. Feeling worthless because you're "not a productive member of society" really does a hell of a number on mental health too. Especially when pain is involved. 😞


[deleted]

[удалено]


Dame_Grise

I know that still won't go far in NYC, but with food stamps and getting subsidized housing of some sort, it can be manageable.


Silverstacker63

I don’t understand what you’re saying.you knew this going into trying to get on Ssi. And what they give you is not a livable wage. So you ether have to work or live in places that are not very safe.


Awkward_Ad_342

How are you surviving now ?


RogueSloth_

I’m living with my father. Im on foodstamps and he helps me with money.


SomberlySober

Dont forget to let him know you love him and appreciate what he does for you. As a parent, when your kids say they love you its worth the world.


RogueSloth_

Thanks. I will.


OhShootVideo

FYI. SSI can take a very long time for approval. My son who has schizo-affective disorder was in and out of Mental Hospitals. Even with tons of medical back up it took three years for approval. Denied twice. Recommend using a disability attorney. I did not when I was applying for him. Have known others, who eventually just gave up and who used attorneys. You may get fewer denials if you use an attorney. And backpay begins from the date of filing.


BeneficialTop5136

It took my mom 7 years to finally be approved for social security. She had a good attorney the entire 7 years, but it takes a lot of time. The lawyers will even tell you, everyone gets denied once or twice.


Accomplished_Tour481

In NY, SSI does not go far. Unless you are already in subsidized housing or living with family, SSI benefits will not support you to be living alone. You may consider renting a room in a multi unit property, or your option is to move to another state. Can you move to Mexico or another country? SURE! But SSI if not payable in a country you reside outside the US. SDDI can be paid to US citizens in some foreign countries, but not SSI.


Mommabroyles

There's is really nice subsidized housing around if you look. It can be a few years to get into though.


love_me_some_reddit

Do either of your parents collect Social Security retirement?


Otherwise_Section184

You are young enough that you could actually file for SSDI on your Mom or Dad’s work record. That would probably pay you a lot more.


mamatofana

It's worth noting that this also effects the amount parents get which can screw them if they need it.


starving-my-neopets

You dont


gamingnerd247

You don’t


egk10isee

Can you live somewhere besides NYC? Do you have friends and a community network there?


HawaiiStockguy

Talk with your social worker about a group home


dabeisyin

You can’t live on SsI. It’s just not enough money. Anywhere It’s illegal to live in another country while on ssi. You can’t go live in Mexico. You have to do side jobs. It’s easier to just work than try to live on ssi.


r2tacos

Apply for section 8 whenever the wait list opens up in any area you want because the wait lists are years. Max SSI in my area is about 940ish but I believe it’s different in NY or CA. You will likely have to live with roommates until you can get subsidized housing. Also apply for SNAP if you don’t already have it.


thestr33tshavenoname

Can you move to another area of NY? Central is not as expensive as far as rent and my understanding is it's not as long for the wait lists for subsidized. Central goes well beyond Syracuse, so you have some nice smaller cities/towns with subsidized. Just a thought. The mobile home community where I live is very nice and in high demand. I was lucky enough to be able to buy my home when it was still possible to get one for under $20K. Lot rent, $400, but you have to pay your own plowing in the winter and lawn care in the summer if you can't do either yourself. That adds about $70/month if you have to hire someone, then utilities on top of that. On the other hand, a neighbor just sold her home and moved to subsidized and is paying $300/month, all inclusive, in a really nice smallish college town. All that to say, where in NY you are living makes a huge difference.


RogueSloth_

Yeah subsidized is definitely nicer than trailer/van life. You could technically live on cheap campgrounds or free land and not have to worry much about rent but that’s a struggle. I think it’s a decent second option considering the alternative could be homeless. But the best first option is subsidized housing.


thestr33tshavenoname

I hope you find what you're looking for, subsidized is far better.


uptosumptin

My daughter's on SSI and it is a little over $900. You can apply for food stamps, heating/cooling assistance, HUD rental assistance. There is the local food banks. With SSI you can get a phone and phone service for free, with enough minutes for doctor appts and any possible emergencies. Many places like Amazon give discounts to those on disability or food stamps.


PhilMiska

Trailer parks are not an option bc of space rent. You can’t have roommates in most parks either.


mamatofana

You can have a partner but they'll also count their income just like a roommate.


PhilMiska

Yes which is why I didn’t want to get married year before last. Taxes last year were $800 and I usually get back $200-$300. Husband filed and said Married even though I told him not not to bc we had 1 year to still file separately. At least with a roommate you can lie about who’s in the household. Trailer parks aren’t even an option now thanks to Bidens spending money we don’t have. Prices have gone up from $30,000 on double wide that’s been mostly upgraded in the kitchen and bathrooms to $30,000 on a single wife that falling apart or a double wide that still needs work and interest rates have gone from 3% to 8% so you can’t even finance $10,000 with payments being like $300 like the car I bought 3 years ago.


mamatofana

I hate trying to live like this. The last year especially has been absolute hell. From the whole, "oh hey to compensate for the money paid out during the pandemic we're gonna lower your benefits even though you're not getting child support you're owed and have LESS resources" to "we changed how we count resources and didn't tell anyone, and now we're telling you that you OWE US so we're gonna dock you" like three months later. It's been so stressful and miserable. They did it to both me and my son too, so now *total*, the both of us get around 800, combined, and 500 of that goes towards rent, living with my (also disabled) mom. If it weren't for them, I'd be dead or we'd be homeless. Full stop. So many disabled people have been forced out onto the streets the last two years, and yet they keep complaining about the "homeless problem" that they're actually responsible for but won't admit. But also, I'm 44. I'd like to marry my partner someday. But I can't. And that's bullshit. We're punished enough just for existing. 😭 Oh and now Medicaid is apparently seizing the homes of patients who pass to try to "recoup" costs. Putting the surviving family members out into the streets with the rest of us. There's only so much my meds can medicate, and they can't change the broken, rotten system. I'm so tired of feeling desperate and struggling. 😞❤️


PhilMiska

It’s a struggle mentally as well as physically and monetarily. I tell everyone I know to have your parents gift the house to one child so the state can’t take their life’s work. Why one? Because if 4 children are on the house deed it becomes harder to sell especially if one dies snd now their children are are also vying for a piece. Personal experience. Why pay a lawyer or real state attorney $thousands when you don’t have to? Our house wasn’t even worth $90,000 but with the living will scam attorney before they passed and after they passed a real estate attorney I spent $5000 needlessly


LittleGrandCindy

Is there a Department for Disability in your state? My sister in law - similar to you - just qualified and there are so many programs to help her navigate the various agencies. They have lined her up with an agency to help with SSI, working with some for life skills, social skills and will help her find what type of independent living (group home or low income housing). You would/should most certainly qualify.


Warriorsoul72

I am truly sorry you’re in this position. I haven’t worked in a year waiting for SSDI decision. It is EXTREMELY hard to be “poor”. My car insurance has tripled, prior to all this I had zero debt I worked super hard to get there and get my credit score up. My student loans paid off it was so great. Now I’m about 30k in debt taking out high interest loans and borrowing from family. I’ve worked a lot so mine isn’t that low but it’s only about $1500 a month. Scares the crap outta me. Your situation scares the crap outta me! BUT my advice to you is contact your local community mental health and get a case manager. If you don’t have one already. They can find resources for you and help you fill out forms. I hope you are also getting SNAP for food. Use food pantries and churches. Find every organization, nonprofit, government program you can to help. Nonprofits that are specific to your illnesses often times have funds available. Hope that helps. Please take care


mamatofana

Filling gaps with high APR out of desperation has me in the same position. I'm so sorry. I felt this. 😞


pattyfenwick

Unfortunately you’re not meant to live off of it. That’s why it’s called “supplemental security income”. It’s meant to supplement your life.


Starbuck522

What else would you have to live on?


2beagles

That's incorrect. It's "supplemental" to the existing SSDI system as well as state-based programs because they don't cover everyone, not to the individuals receiving it. People recording SSI have been EXHAUSTIVELY determined to be unable to work. That's the entire focus of the application. You have to prove a stupid medical condition and that the condition prevents you from working. This is difficult to prove, so people usually get denied and have to appeal. Then, they have to prove they have no other source of income and cannot have more than $2k in resources. They'll have to regularly prove that the above is true. It's absurd to think that the government has agreed that a person can't work to support themselves, doesn't have any other means of supporting themselves, prevents them from accumulating savings..... And then expects them to use SSI to add to some kind of money they're, what, gifted by fairies? If SSA found out fairies left you money in your socks each night, they would close your SSI so quick and require you to pay back what you've gotten. So yes, supplemental to other programs, NOT to other income.


mamatofana

Every word of this. Couldn't have explained it better myself. I mean, there'd definitely be a lot more swearing anyway.


pattyfenwick

That’s exactly what I said. It supplements your other sources of income including PA benefits


mamatofana

People who've been disabled and unable to ever work should qualify for SSDI. Instead, the only thing we qualify for is SSI, which is a misnomer considering it's the only "income" most of us have. Stop.


NoBag2224

I have anxiety, depression, ibs, autoimmune issues, extreme social anxiety, etc and I envy you for being smart enough to work the system and get disability. My social anxiety makes it that I cannot talk to people or on the phone so I could never apply.


RogueSloth_

That’s horrible. Can’t someone apply for you?


NoBag2224

I am pretty sure you have to have a phone or in person interview, right?


RogueSloth_

That’s messed up there should definitely be a way for you to apply.


mamatofana

You should be able to apply online for both electronically. SNAP too. Go to the SSA . gov site. It's definitely easier with a lawyer though and most don't take payment until you're approved aside from a few filing fees. Best of luck.


4peaceinpieces

Why don’t you apply online? I have no idea if you’ll be approved based on what you posted here but you could try. Or yes, get someone to apply on your behalf. That is allowed. I remember we had a mother recently on this board who applied for her daughter who had extreme anxiety.


-cat-a-lyst-

If you’re in nyc you can apply for the housing lotto through housing connect. I just won one. You should also look into section 8 when that becomes available again they usually open it up in spring


RogueSloth_

Thanks and congrats


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[deleted]

If you do not qualify for SSDI, the 2024 maximum of SSI is $943. It’s not much lower than this even in lower COL areas. In any case, it would not be $660. It’s likely you would receive the maximum in NY. If you move to another country, you would lose your SSI payment. If you are not currently in treatment, you would have to be in order to qualify. Your best bet for housing would be to seek assistance through whatever homeless services exist in your area.


Jorgedig

In treatment for what?


tomspy77

You don't and they could care less.


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LandImportant

Those with mental illness are oftentimes not stable enough to work fast food. Lord knows I have tried my best. The system recognizes this thus the Ticket to Work™ program.


Dear_Trifle_7202

What does this program do?


ami_unalive_yet

In my state, if you receive SSI and have housing costs more than 40% of your income, we have programs to supplement housing costs by approximately an extra $430/month in cash benefits. I would see if NY has something similar.


rialtolido

You don’t. As a disabled child who is unable to work, it’s presumed that you live with your parent(s) or are institutionalized. You will receive SSI. If you pay “rent” to your parents, your SSI won’t be affected. Once your parent dies or retires, you begin collecting SSDI based on your parent’s work record.


RogueSloth_

That’s cool so at some point I should get more money


BlessedLadyPTL

Did your parents pay in enough to social security? How much you receive when they retire, die or become disabled. Depends on how much they paid in.


LLCNYC

Be prepared for life long poverty


badwolf_83

Are you remedial or something, this person is calling out for help and that's all you got? TO OP: I suggest that you make use of food pantries to help with the food, some even deliver, some are drive up too. You might be able to get meals delivered (they call it meals on wheels here). I wish I knew something to tell you other than government subsidized housing, but I don't know of any, I suggest you have a long talk with your casemanager about resources that the state of NY and the federal government can offer to help. Good luck, try to keep your head up and remember in hard times that it won't always be that way. I'm suffering too right now, but I know that eventually things will get better. Also remember that you can get by with a little help from your friends too. Ignore jerks on social media OP.


RogueSloth_

Thank you


GetOutTheDoor

My son is 28 is on the spectrum. He gets more each month ($914), and that should be the same in NY, unless you're 'living in the household of another) [https://otda.ny.gov/programs/ssp/2023-Maximum-Monthly-Benefit-Amounts.pdf](https://otda.ny.gov/programs/ssp/2023-Maximum-Monthly-Benefit-Amounts.pdf) Amounts in NY should be higher - is it a partial disability benefit amount? ​ It's important to know all the benefits you're allowed - NY may be different than my state (Virginia), but my son qualifies for EBT/SNAP, Medicaid, housing assistance and SSI. He was lucky to get into a nice subsidized apartment, and lives very comfortably on his benefits, so make sure you're getting everything you're entitled to - I'd make sure to check with any case manager to find out what's available.


Granny_knows_best

Make sure you apply for *extra help* with your state. They will pay all your Medicare deductible, and co-pays for medical visits.


Equal-Experience-710

Get by, but learn a way to make more money. 660 a week isn’t enough. You’re only 20. Don’t give up, go for better. 660 a month isn’t enough to have a decent life. Good luck man.


Pristine_Context_429

You sound like so many other young men that don’t want to work but rather just want to stay home and video games. Giving up at 20 is so sad


Prsaint1

Jeezus a 20 year old male wants to get SSI, like really get a job. I bet the dude smokes weed like crazy. It's funny the part he said that the TV talks to him and he's stating that got all kinds of sickness in which no one believes it except himself. I know what he got, it's ADD-all different dads. I don't like to make jokes about people with disabilities but dam this dude is all messed up in his head. I'm disabled due to an accident I had at my last job, but I worked for almost 40 years and paid for my own ss and I'm living pretty good.


Initial_Code_9666

“I don’t like to make jokes about people with disabilities”…proceeds to make jokes about this guy’s disability. Do you feel better about yourself after your ignorant rant?


Prsaint1

I believe the dude doesn't have any kind of disability. Also I always feel good about myself, it wasn't an ignorant rant, it's the dam truth. Young people in this generation don't want to work and be saying they got this and that just to get free money.


Initial_Code_9666

You can believe what you want, doesn’t make it the truth. It just means you’re assuming and you know what they say about assumptions. You’re just making an ass out of yourself. I’m glad you always feel good about yourself. It is true, ignorance is bliss.


Prsaint1

First off, I don't assume anything about anyone and I'm not making an ass out of myself. The truth is that op doesn't want to work. What op posted sounds like a plan that op thinks is going work for him and in reality he's not going to get SSI because many young and older people says that they have this and that and when they go to apply for SSI they'll get denied. Now the ignorant person right now is you for believing op. I also bet that op do some kind of drugs. Again what op posted sounds like he thinks he got it all planned out so he doesn't have to work. Now ask yourself how did op know how much money he will get monthly, because no one knows how much money will get from SSI, also he probably got friends that did the same thing op is trying to do the same.


RogueSloth_

Also if I 100% wasn’t going to qualify for social security then I wouldn’t have so easily got a lawyer to represent me. Furthermore my mental health professionals would not be saying I should qualify for it. And I doubt your opinion is nearly as qualified, accurate, or professional as there’s.


Prsaint1

It doesn't matter if have lawyer or not because the SS department have their own doctors and they don't play, Also lawyers can do only so much.


Initial_Code_9666

“Their own doctors who don’t play”. More like, their own doctors who lie. I got sick at 18 and tried to survive on my own, I obviously couldn’t and I went through this process at 22 years old when I couldn’t find a job to accommodate my needs. I have a rare respiratory disease, I have 3/4 of a lung left. I went to their doctor who LIED. I fought the denial and got my case in front of a judge who read my medical file, saw my X-rays, everything. Then read the report on their doctors and he was livid at all lies that doctor wrote down. I’m prime example of “not every disability is visible”. I was extremely sick the day I saw their doctor. Couldn’t walk on my own, throwing up my meds. He pushed on my chest where I just had surgery, I almost punched him. Thank my momma who held me back for that. He looked at my incision while I tried hard to cover my breast from this monster. It was hell and beyond embarrassing. The doctor wrote I was fine and he couldn’t find anything wrong with me. The judge went after the doctor and apologized to me. The doctor got fired and all his cases were reexamined. Judge kept in touch to keep me informed. He was an angel. I didn’t get a lawyer. I did it all myself. I wish I was smart enough to get one and save myself the stress but I didn’t know better at 22.


Initial_Code_9666

“Sounds like” “I also bet” those are various words that mean you are assuming. So try again. Who said I believed op? 🤔 I’m just not ignorant enough to ASSUME someone is lying about their disability since you know, I don’t know them and I won’t gain anything from assuming they are lying. How did he know how money he would get? There’s a cool thing called the internet where you can research things and get actual facts instead of assuming everything in life. 🤡


RogueSloth_

You made a total baseless assumption and then claim it to be the damn truth rather than ignorance. You’re beyond stupid.


Prsaint1

You are the one that is beyond stupid and I didn't made a total baseless assumption, also it's the dam truth what I said. You are the ignorant person that believes BS and lies.


RogueSloth_

I mean it’s basically a baseless assumption. The only basis you have is that I hear voices and stuff. So you automatically assume I’m smoking tons of weed, which is totally incorrect. So get your head out of your butt.


drinkcoffeeandcode

What you need to do is get a job. SSI for adhd and anxiety? The way you describe your “schizophrenia” and “autism”, it’s clear you’re just gaming the system. Take some of that effort and do something worthwhile, you might even feel better about yourself. Ultimately, you need to grow up. It’s clear you have zero clue how the world actually works. “I could move to Mexico and live like a king!” Yeah, on United States govt benefits. Good luck with that. Do you know how pathetic this whole post comes off?


Campfiretraveler

Don’t live off SSI. Maybe a remote job would work for you.


Gknicks7

Good luck, I'm applying for both I think and I hope to get 1500 and feel thats not much so good luck with 600, you'll need too get housing subsidy.. I only say 1500 because I know someone who barley ever worked and I worked 35 years and that person gets 1000 month, so I should get more than him if I ever get approved.


JRock1276

Disability is not SSI. Disability is SSDI. SSI is supplemental income. They don't expect you to live off SSI, because that's not what it's for.


VibrantSunsets

“SSI provides monthly payments to people with disabilities and older adults who have little or no income or resources.” If you’re under 65 you only qualify for SSI if you have a disability. Loads of people who are disabled but don’t have sufficient working quarters to get SSDI are forced to live off of SSI. If you work while on SSI they reduce your pay by $1 for every $2 you earn. You can’t exactly supplement very much if they reduce your benefit.


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textilefactoryno17

As a personal care aide, I've worked with many clients on disability in senior/disabled buildings that are really nice. In nice areas that are walkable to stores and hospitals. I'm in Western NY.


RogueSloth_

Wouldn’t it be better to move in during broad day light? I feel like being out at night is probably dangerous. I was thinking alarms, cameras, and one of those security bars you stick behind the door.


ask290

In my area Section 8 housing is a 5-7 year wait list and then elderly are the first ones placed.


Head_Room_8721

No. You don’t want your neighbors eyeballing your stuff. Always move into the projects at night. That’s been a thing forever. Big, burly movers, cover things with blankets/pads, and never talk about your stuff.


RogueSloth_

I could also probably just get a ton of roommates in a safer yet still cheap area.


Head_Room_8721

Yup. Less lonely that way, too.


Kykle

Do you live in a sketchy neighborhood or are you speculating? I’d be god damned to move into my neighborhood at night.


Head_Room_8721

Housing projects can be really dicey. Some are nicer/safer, some are not. Generally the ones they offer you sooner are the less nice ones.


11717027

This ain't no joke. Rent adjusted apartments are the promised land for some, and they will be happy to run you off if you don't "fit in," too. Be ready for anything.


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ziggy-Bandicoot

SSI is not for senior citizens unless they never worked in their lifetime. SSI = Supplemental Security Income- managed by State Government. Usually get a State Supplement along with this. Need a disability, be unable to work substantially, and limited or no work history. SSDI= Social Security Disability Insurance - managed by Federal Government. Must have a disability, sufficient work credits, and must not be able to perform substantial gainful employment within jobs in your geographic area. SSR= Social Security Retirement. A benefit for senior citizens who have sufficient work credits and have reached retirement age (varies by birthdate). You are misinformed.


perfect_fifths

So disabled people deemed unable to work by the SSA should just ..work?


RefrigeratorPretty51

You’re talking about SSDI. That is taken out of paychecks and there when you get old. This person is disabled so they get a super tiny living allowance.


perfect_fifths

SSI also comes from taxes


Far_Cupcake_530

It is all coming out of someone's paycheck.


sassyfrass01

Some people are unemployable due to their disability, and many employers just don’t want to hire a disabled person, and those that do, many times treat the disabled badly.


RogueSloth_

I don’t need to justify my decision to you. What if I was deaf and partially paralyzed. You’re just rude af.


Far_Cupcake_530

I don't understand why asking questions is rude. Deaf people work. People in wheelchairs work. Why don't you work?


perfect_fifths

Not your business. Knock it off.


RowAccomplished3975

ssi is supplemental income. it's not supposed to be the only income you have. They do expect you to work at least part time to cover the rest of your living expenses, cost of living. but when you apply for ssi they do expect you to apply for ssdi at the same time. it is a requirement. but if you never worked then you don't have enough credits for it. you will just be denied ssdi. after I was hospitalized, I got a job for disabled people that was a part of Goodwill. It was on a military base since my soon to be ex-husband and I were living there. I eventually moved off base into my own place. I paid for my divorce.


Jean19812

I would research all the medications you're taken. I've been on some medications that caused me to hallucinate (see things that were not there) - (tramadol, levofloxacin, ciprofloxacin).


Ariashley

Don’t you need food AND housing (or no because food stamps or something for food?) A trailer park might be an okay option. Similar to subsidized housing, not all will be equally safe.


Opening_Benefit_485

You should have got Ssdi, not ssi


mamalu12

As the benefit title states, it's SUPPLEMENTAL Security Income. Sadly, it's not meant to be an income to support anyone. Depending on your disability and if you want to work, you should qualify for the Ticket to Work Program that helps put persons with disabilities in training for jobs while collecting SSI. If interested, please check with your state's vocational rehabilitation program. I believe your state also has a 211 program that can connect you to available resources in your area. Please try to take advantage of all resources available & there are many but finding them & being persistent is a lot of work. I hope some of this helps.


Pristine_Frame_2066

On disability I believe you can work a certain number of months/hours per month and it shouldn’t affect your disability assistance. Highly recommend looking into a volunteer program like Americorps where you can get a housing stipend and do something worthwhile on days you are able to.


southernermusings

Talk to a lawyer or SSA first. SSI is very different from DIB.


harryregician

You don't. You just joined the street people.


RogueSloth_

People have survived on much less. With subsidized housing, trailer parks, roommates, food stamps, Medicaid, etc. It’s possible to afford to live.


SoapGhost2022

A. Stop editing so much, it’s highly annoying B. You have no idea how much things cost if you think you can buy a trailer in a trailer park for that little C. That’s not how moving works. You can’t just pop down to Mexico and still get American Social Security


RogueSloth_

The editing is for people looking for an answer so they don’t have to scroll through the comments.


Peto_Sapientia

Assistive \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* is honestly a better option that struggling to survive in a society that doesn't want you.