Benefits to Independence 101
Module 1: Session 4
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Understanding Your Disability Benefits
"Identifying Which Benefits You Are Receiving & Why It Matters"
Learning Objectives:
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Learn the differences between SSI and SSDI.
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Understand eligibility rules for each program.
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Identify health coverage linked to SSI (Medi-Cal) and SSDI (Medicare).
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Learn where to find help and how to verify your benefit type.
Activities:
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Benefit Documentation Collection: Gather your most recent award letters, medical insurance paperwork and/or cards, and any other benefit documentation. Download the Benefit Documentation Collection worksheet here.
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Benefits Planning Query (BPQY) Review: Request your Benefits Planning Query (BPQY) from your local SSA office or by calling SSA at (800) 772-1213.
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Organize: Create a filing system (physical or digital) for organizing all your benefit-related documents and letters from the Social Security Administration (SSA). Download the Create a Filing System worksheet here.
Resources:
Understanding Your Disability Benefits – Resource GuideUpon completion of this session, you will have completed Module 1 in the Benefits to Independence to 101 Course. Congratulations!
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If you are a Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipient, you will move on to Module 2 – Session 5.
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If you are a Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) only recipient, you will skip Module 2 and move on to Module 3 – Session 13.