Does SIS AmeriCorps participation affect disability benefits?
Participation in AmeriCorps can affect disability benefits for some Members. However, because SIS Members do not receive a living stipend, they are less likely to have their disability benefits negatively impacted by participation in AmeriCorps. The following guidelines will help participants navigate through the process, recognizing that disability benefit decisions are made ultimately on a case-by-case basis. The education award is considered taxable income for Members in the year in which the award is used, not earned. There is no effect on disability benefits during the service year because the participant has not yet received the education award. Members will not lose disability benefits as a result of participating in AmeriCorps. However, it is possible that the education award could trigger a decrease in monthly SSI benefits after the education award is used. There are several strategies for preventing any decrease or negative effect on disability benefits: 1. Members take advan
