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What is the “date last insured” (DLI) and why is it important as far as my claim for Social Security Disability Benefits is concerned? Is it important if I am only filing for Supplemental Security Income Benefits?
The DLI is the last date you qualify to receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) based upon your work history and your payments into Social Security. This is a very important date because if you are not considered disabled on or before that date, then you may only be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for which payments are made on the basis of financial need.
SSDI is financed with Social Security taxes paid by workers, employers, and self-employed persons. To be eligible, the worker must earn sufficient credits based on taxable work to be "insured" for Social Security purposes. Benefits for a disability are payable to blind or disabled workers, widow(er)s, or adults disabled since childhood, who are otherwise eligible. Social Security uses an insured worker’s earnings record to determine the amount of the monthly disability benefit.
Credits are based on the amount of your earnings. You may earn up to a maximum of 4 credits each year for working or operating your own business, assuming Social Security taxes are paid.
Your work history, specifically the credits you earn, determines your eligibility for retirement or disability benefits or your family's eligibility for survivors benefits when you die.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a program financed through general revenues. SSI disability benefits are payable to adults or children who are disabled or blind, and who otherwise do not meet the earnings requirement. The monthly payment varies up to the maximum federal benefit rate, however the payment may be supplemented by the State or decreased if you have some income and resources over the allowed limit.
Because SSI benefits are often less than the SSDI benefits, the date last insured is very important to obtain the highest benefit payable.
Should you have any questions regarding social security benefits, or if you would like to consult with an attorney, please contact our office.