Ask Larry

What Is My Best Option?

Larry,
I was told by a social security agent my Spousal Benefit would add $600 to my total monthly income, so I accepted my Spousal Benefit about a month ago.
However the Spousal Benefit increase stopped my SSI disability benefit and possibly Medicaid and stopped my EBT food stamp benefits and now my income is at least $200 less per month. I want to stop my spousal benefit and have my old benefits and income back.
What a mess, should I file
request for reconsideration,
or file request for withdrawal, or file for misinformation,
or what is the best thing you would do for yourself if you had this problem?

Thank You Sir,
Stressed

Hi. You can't refuse to apply for any Social Security benefits for which you qualify and still be able to collect Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. SSI is a needs based program administered by Social Security, and it's intended to as a last resort source of income for people who are disabled, blind, or age 65 or older. One of the requirements for receiving SSI payments in that you must first apply for any other type of benefits for which you qualify, including Social Security benefits. Therefore, if you withdraw your application for spousal benefits, or if you would have refused to apply for those benefits, Social Security would still have stopped paying your SSI benefits.

My expertise is limited to Social Security benefits, so I can't give you any specific advice about your options with regard to Medicaid or the food stamp program. All I can tell you is that you couldn't be paid SSI benefits if you refuse to collect any Social Security benefits for which you qualify (https://secure.ssa.gov/apps10/poms.nsf/lnx/0500510001).

Best, Jerry

Posted: 
Mar 24 2022 - 1:24pm
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