Yes, it is possible to receive disability while in college through programs such as Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
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It is possible to receive disability while in college through programs such as Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSDI provides benefits to people who are no longer able to work due to a disability, while SSI provides benefits to disabled individuals with limited income and resources.
To be eligible for SSDI benefits, the individual must have worked and paid Social Security taxes for a certain number of years. SSI benefits are available to disabled individuals with limited income and resources who have never worked or who have not worked recently.
One important factor to consider is that receiving disability benefits may affect the amount of financial aid a student is eligible to receive. It is important to discuss the impact of disability benefits on financial aid with a college financial aid office.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, in 2015-2016, approximately 11 percent of undergraduate students in the United States reported having a disability. Additionally, the organization Disability Rights, Education, and Defense Fund provides resources and support for students with disabilities in college.
Famous author and disability rights advocate Helen Keller once said, “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” It is crucial for individuals with disabilities to seek out resources and support in order to achieve their goals, including pursuing higher education while on disability.
Here is a table summarizing the eligibility requirements and differences between SSDI and SSI benefits:
| SSDI | SSI | |
|---|---|---|
| Eligibility criteria | Have worked and paid Social Security taxes | Disabled individuals with limited income/resources |
| Financial assistance | Based on prior work history and earnings | Provides minimum income if eligibility is met |
| Eligibility for aid | May reduce eligibility for financial aid | May reduce eligibility for financial aid |
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Attorney Anthony Ruiz explains that when it comes to going to college while receiving disability benefits, the focus is not on the grant but on the individual’s circumstances surrounding their schooling. He suggests considering questions such as attendance, accommodation needs, retaking classes, and handling coursework. Social Security considers these factors to determine whether going back to college indicates the ability to re-enter the workforce.
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To qualify for social security disability benefits, individuals must have a medical condition that prevents them from working full-time. Disabled individuals can still receive benefits while attending school. In fact, attending college or other forms of education is often encouraged.
So, the bottom line is that while it is possible to get Social Security Disability Insurance benefits while attending college, the process is long, convoluted, frustrating, and ultimately, disappointing for many. While you certainly can go to school if you’re on Social Security Disability Insurance, don’t expect much financial assistance.
To qualify for social security disability benefits, individuals must have a medical condition that prevents them from working full-time. Disabled individuals can still receive benefits while attending school. In fact, attending college or other forms of education is often encouraged.
For more information about receiving SSA disability benefits while attending college, please visit the SSA website at https://www.ssa.gov/. You can also go to your nearest SSA office, or call 1-800-772-1213. A disability does not preclude you from the bright and rewarding future career that a college degree represents.
In order to get accommodations in college, students need to register as a student with disabilities. This happens with the disability services office, not the admissions office.
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Individuals who are getting SSDI may be eligible for a Pell Grant if there is financial need. Pell Grants do not affect SSDI benefits.