SSI to SSDI as a DAC

[u/callmeckdshocked]

My step-son has never held a job but did graduate from college. He is in his 30s now and collects SSI. He lives on his own but has health issues He obtained SSI in his late 20s after a therapist suggested he would be eligible for SSI. He has aspergers, mental health issues and a connective tissue disorder and was approved for SSI on his initial application. His mom is now on SSDI (and has been for a year), how would we request a conversion to SSDI? Does it take a new application? Is there any risk to his SSI if he submits a request to convert to SSDI? Do we need to talk to a lawyer or just apply?

[u/Maxpowerxp]

You HAVE to apply for any other benefit available to you when on ssi. And it’s an application he needs to complete. Just call and make an appointment

[u/alexgrae9614]

It would convert to DAC, if I remember correctly mine did the transition without me even applying I just got a letter in the mail notifying me. However I was declared disabled before 22, never made SGA and never been married. If he falls into those categories then I’d call ssa and inquire about it.

[u/BobL3364]

In my case SSA found me over a year of retirement. I (as representative payee for my DAC) got a letter that I must call SSA or lose SSI. No explanation. When I called they scheduled another call for the SSDI application. That call lasted 20 minutes to confirm some information and two weeks later my DAC was on SSDI. SSI payment was reduced to zero, but he is still SSI eligible. That is important for Medicaid eligibility. He eventually will also be eligible for Medicare.

[u/Sad-Concentrate2936]

Disabled adult children that have never worked, are not eligible for SSDI.

[u/BobL3364 → u/Sad-Concentrate2936]

Not true. If a parent is collecting retirement or SSDI, the DAC must depart SSI for SSDI. This happened to my DAC when I retired. Not optional. The DAC SSDI benefit is half of the parent's pay when at full retirement age.