Husband as Caregiver

[nicoly3467]

Hi Friends-I have a question re: Social Security disabilty benefits or social security benefits. My hubby lost his job after Thanksgiving last year and I’m wondering if he could apply for SSDI or Social Security? He has been my caretaker since I was diagnosed with MS-6.5 years ago especially with all the Ms relapses I’ve had. He is a huge help everyday and he does so many things-taking my son to school (round trip is 50 mins) and picking him up after school at bus station nearby. He picks up my medicines and also makes lunch and dinner meals for me and gets me waters, etc, if I don’t feel up to it or strong enough. Just curious-if anyone knows. Most of the things above I had to do when he worked and had no choice even though it caused me extra fatigue. Nikki

[rjoneslaw]

Call the MSAA and get the attorney Jamie Hall number he is a social security attorney that works with the association

[nicoly3467 in reply to rjoneslaw]

Ok, thanks so much for info. I really appreciate it.

[BettysMom]

You seem to be confused. It is you, the disabled person, not your husband, who applies for SSDI (if you have paid in to SS) or SSI (Supplemental Security Income) if you have not.

[goatgal in reply to BettysMom]

There may be some benefits available depending on income levels, school breakfast/ lunch program for your son, SNAP benefits for the family: make an appointment to see a social security counselor to explain which benefits you are eligible to receive as well as how & where to apply.

[ahrogers in reply to goatgal]

I agree, there are local resources as well as federal resources. Every state and county has different resources and ways to apply for the assistance.

Check to see if there is a social worker either through your doctor/hospital or the county you live in to help you identify what you qualify for and how to apply.

I am not sure about caregiver SSDI but when my friends mom was disabled she qualified for some kind of in home assistance but it didn't pay much and she had a hard time finding people who would work for the amount it paid. It would at least be a little extra as long as family caregivers are allowed to receive the benefit.

Good luck!

[nicoly3467 in reply to BettysMom]

No, I’m not confused. I applied for SSDI and I have my court hearing next month. I was just asking if there was something in addition for caregivers, since my hubby handles so much for me on a daily basis and it’s become difficult for him to work a regular job most of the time.

[BettysMom in reply to nicoly3467]

I inferred that you were confused since you asked if your HUSBAND could apply for SSDI or social security. Of course, he cannot get disability payments if he is not disabled. And social security does not pay caregivers. In general, to get government monies for being the caregiver to a disabled relative, the disabled person must qualify for Medicaid. In order to qualify one must meet a low income requirement and have very little net assets. The programs are administered differently in different states so I can't be any more specific than that.

[goatgal]

I put this below in the thread (thought I was responding to you, but realized I put my response in the wrong spot, so I am reposting to be sure you see it): There may be some benefits available depending on income levels, school breakfast/ lunch program for your son, SNAP benefits for the family: make an appointment to see a social security counselor to explain which benefits you are eligible to receive as well as how & where to apply.

And another idea: you take such lovely bird photos. Is there a way you could use these to earn some additional income? I'm thinking framed photos, note cards, tote bags? I once had a box of note cards made from a photo of mine (world's sweetest baby goat) from an online source.

[nicoly3467 in reply to goatgal]

Thanks so much for info and the sweet comment about my bird photos. I have thought about something like that, but I know I can’t exceed a certain amount of income per month (forget amount) or my SSDI, which I’m hoping to get would go away. Anyway, it’s something to consider.

[BettysMom in reply to nicoly3467]

Are you applying for SSDI which is based on what you have put in to Social Security or SSI (Supplemental Security Income)?

[Ohmywhynot]

I love goatgal’s idea. Build a home business. Put your wonderful husband to work building it. Research, research, research. Etsy is a possibility, however, check other resources. A new life may just be around the corner.

[kycmary]

I agree with all this advice especially as you need professional advice. Good luck & goatgal has a great idea there. I also will be praying for you

[nicoly3467 in reply to kycmary]

Kycmary-Thank you so much for your prayer.