Will marriage affect my fiancé's SSDI and Medicaid benefits with my income?

Your fiancé's SSDI benefits will NOT be affected by your income after marriage. SSDI is based on the worker's previous earnings record and isn't means-tested. However, you're right to be concerned about Medicaid - that's where the problem usually comes in. If his Medicaid eligibility is tied to his SSI status (which is different from SSDI) or to income thresholds, then yes, your income would likely be counted in determining continued eligibility after marriage. I'd suggest contacting your state's Medicaid office directly to understand the specific rules in your state, as Medicaid regulations vary significantly by location.

I was in ALMOST the same boat 2 years ago!!! My now-husband has been on SSDI for 8 years (chronic kidney disease) and we worried about the EXACT same thing. When we got married, his SSDI checks stayed EXACTLY the same amount - not a penny difference!!! BUT - and this is the BIG problem - he DID lose his Medicaid within 3 months after our marriage. They counted our combined income and it was WAY over the limit. It has been a NIGHTMARE trying to get him affordable coverage since then. My work insurance is terrible for his conditions and we're paying almost $900/month for medications now. I really wish someone had warned us about this part before we got married!!!!

my cousin married his girlfriend last year and he gets disability too. they didnt have any problems with his payments but idk about the medicaid part. maybe you could just not get married officially? like have the ceremony but not sign the papers? thats what my neighbor did

To clarify some misinformation - SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) is NOT affected by spousal income as it's based on the disabled person's work history. However, Medicaid eligibility rules vary by state, and in most states, household income (including spouse's income) is counted. Here are some options to consider: 1. Look into your state's Medicaid Buy-In program for workers with disabilities (even if your fiancé can only work minimally) 2. Check if your state offers Medicaid spend-down programs that might allow higher income levels 3. See if your fiancé qualifies for Medicare (typically after 24 months on SSDI) and explore Medicare Part D for prescriptions plus a Medicare Supplement plan 4. Consult with a benefits planner who specializes in disability benefits - many Centers for Independent Living offer this service for free Before making any decisions, get specific information for your state. The general rules are similar, but the income thresholds and available programs vary significantly.

My wife and I dealt with this last year. Its infuriating how the system basically punishes people for getting married! We actually postponed our wedding for 5 years because of this issue. Have you considered talking to a disability lawyer? We found one who gave us a free consultation and explained all our options. Medicaid is definitely the bigger concern than the SSDI.

Have you tried calling Social Security directly to get specific information for your situation? I had to call them recently about a retirement benefit question, and after trying for weeks and being on hold forever, I found this service called Claimyr that got me through to an agent in under 5 minutes. You might want to check it out at claimyr.com - they have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/Z-BRbJw3puU The SSA agent I spoke with was actually really helpful and gave me specific information for my state. Given how complicated your situation is with both SSDI and Medicaid considerations, talking directly with an agent might be your best bet to get accurate information before making such an important decision.

Just wanted to share that i know several couples who just had commitment ceremonies but never legally married to avoid this exact problem. its not fair but sometimes you gotta do what you gotta do. the govt shouldnt be in our personal business anyway!

One important thing to check: has your fiancé been on SSDI for at least 24 months? If so, he should qualify for Medicare regardless of Medicaid status. Medicare Part B + Part D + a Medicare Supplement plan, while not free like Medicaid, can provide good coverage. If he has low income (not counting your income before marriage), he might also qualify for Extra Help with Medicare prescription costs. For the most accurate information, I'd recommend: 1. Contacting your state's Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) for free unbiased Medicare/Medicaid counseling 2. Speaking with a benefits planner at a local Center for Independent Living 3. Getting specifics from your state's Medicaid office about how marriage would affect his particular type of Medicaid coverage Every state handles their Medicaid programs differently, especially for disabled individuals, so general advice online won't be as helpful as state-specific guidance.