Cortland, OH asked in Social Security for Ohio

Q: I would like to use a Survey Site to earn gift cards. I am on SSI Disability. Can I get Nintendo Eshop cards no reportin

1) How much can I earn without losing or limiting benefits

2) What can be resold regarding gift cards

3) How often can I earn gift cards

4) How soon must they redeemed to not be counted against me

Thanks!

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1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered
  • Social Security Disability Lawyer
  • Sacramento, CA

A: When receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI), it's important to understand how additional income, including earnings from survey sites, can affect your benefits. Generally, the Social Security Administration (SSA) allows you to earn a certain amount of money without affecting your SSI benefits. However, gift cards earned from surveys are often considered income and must be reported to the SSA. The income limit for SSI recipients changes annually, so you should check the current limit with the SSA.

Regarding reselling gift cards, you can sell them, but the income from the sale would also need to be reported to the SSA. The frequency of earning gift cards does not specifically limit your benefits, but the total value of the gift cards earned will count towards your income limit.

Gift cards should be spent or redeemed fairly quickly, as holding onto them could be viewed as a resource, which might affect your SSI benefits. The SSA considers resources, like cash or items that can be converted to cash, when determining eligibility for SSI.

To ensure you're managing your benefits and additional income correctly, consider contacting the SSA directly or seeking advice from a legal professional knowledgeable about SSI benefits. They can provide guidance specific to your situation to help you stay compliant with SSA rules.

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