When a person meets the requirements for Supplemental Security Income benefits in New Jersey, there are many different circumstances for each case. Some people are not capable of working, and their age, blindness or other disability combined with resource limitations were sufficient to be approved for SSI benefits. Others qualify because of their individual situation at the time, but their situation is not permanent. Knowing how SSI and Medicaid are intertwined is essential for all workers.
A major worry for many is what will happen to their Medicaid payments if they go back to work. Understanding Medicaid in the context of SSI is important before heading back to the workforce. For those who are receiving SSI for disability or blindness and receive Medicaid prior to going to work, the Medicaid benefits will continue during their time on the job, provided they are still disabled.
Earnings are a critical factor for SSI, and if a person earns too much to retain their SSI benefits, they will generally be allowed to retain Medicaid in the following circumstances: if they remain blind or disabled; if they meet the requirements for SSI eligibility in every way apart from their earnings; if they were eligible for regular SSI cash payments for a minimum of one month before becoming eligible under the law for substantial gainful activity; if the Medicaid is needed to keep working; if the earnings will not cover the SSI cash benefit value, Medicaid and other funding options; or if the state requirements for Medicaid are met.
Medicaid is a key factor for people who are getting SSI benefits. For those who are trying to work and might lose their Medicaid because of it, it is wise to know what the thresholds are for Medicaid to stop and when it can continue. If there are concerns about this or a person believes their Medicaid was stopped unfairly, legal help is a must. A law firm whose practice focuses on Social Security disability and Supplemental Security Income can help.
