Will spending savings for living expenses affect my SSDI approval? Already denied for SSI

Ur better off jst waiting for SSDI decision first. If its approved u might not even qualify for SSI anymore depending on ur SSDI amount. If SSDI is over like $900 u probably wont get SSI anyway

Your lawyer should be addressing both claims! SSI and SSDI are separate programs with different eligibility criteria. For SSI, you're right that the resource limit is $2,000 for an individual. Since your resources are now under the limit, you can file a new SSI application. You don't need to appeal the old denial - it's often easier to just file a new SSI claim showing your current financial situation. The SSA will still process your SSDI claim separately. If approved for SSDI, your payment would be based on your earnings record, not your current resources. However, if your SSDI payment is high enough (over the Federal Benefit Rate of $943 in 2025), you might not qualify for SSI anyway. I'd suggest talking to your attorney specifically about filing a new SSI application while your SSDI is pending. The fact that you filed as dire need should hopefully expedite your SSDI decision.

I went through something similar! Had too much in my bank account when I first applied for SSI but then had to spend it all on living expenses while waiting. My advice is DON'T wait - file a new SSI application right away. It's not technically an appeal, it's a new claim based on your changed financial circumstances. The SSA considers your resources month by month for SSI.

Is your lawyer any good?? They should be handling BOTH claims! You're paying them! The SSA system is DESIGNED to wear people down and make them give up. I had to apply THREE TIMES before getting approved even with obvious disabilities. Your attorney needs to fight for both your SSDI AND SSI!!

Social Security disability specialist here. Your situation is actually quite common. Here's what you should know: 1. For SSI, eligibility is determined month by month. If your resources are now under $2,000, you can file a new SSI application rather than appealing the old denial. 2. Your SSDI claim is separate and based on your work history and medical condition, not your current resources. 3. If approved for SSDI with a monthly benefit of $1,450, you likely won't qualify for SSI anyway (unless you live in a state with a supplement). 4. The "dire need" designation can help expedite processing but doesn't guarantee approval. 5. Since you have an attorney, they should be advising you on both programs. However, many focus on SSDI because the potential back pay (and thus their fee) is typically higher. I'd recommend calling your local SSA office to inquire about filing a new SSI application while your SSDI claim is pending. You can provide updated financial information showing your resources are now under the limit.

I recently went through the same frustration trying to get through to SSA about my disability application. After getting disconnected multiple times and waiting on hold for hours, I found a service called Claimyr that got me connected to a real SSA agent in under 5 minutes. They basically call SSA for you and transfer you once they get through. I was skeptical at first but it actually worked! I was able to discuss my application status and got the info I needed. You can check out how it works at claimyr.com or see their video demo at https://youtu.be/Z-BRbJw3puU. It was a lifesaver when I was in your situation.

theres a big backlog right now with disability claims. my neighbor waited 8 months just to get denied then had to appeal. hope you got enough savings left to last

just wondering, what kinda disabilities do u have? some get approved faster than others

One important point that hasn't been mentioned: if your SSDI is approved, you'll likely receive back pay from your application date (or 5 months after your disability onset date, whichever is later). This could be a significant lump sum that would put you over the SSI resource limit again. You should ask your attorney about setting up a PASS (Plan to Achieve Self-Support) account or an ABLE account if you qualify, which are special accounts that don't count toward your SSI resource limit. This can help you manage any back pay without losing eligibility for other benefits. Also, make sure your dire need status is documented regularly. If your financial situation is worsening, have your attorney submit updated information to potentially expedite your case.