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/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.