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Question 1

The primary difference between SSI (Supplemental Security Income) and SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) is:

Accepted Answer

SSI is need-based and does not require work history; SSDI is based on work credits earned

Answer

SSI is a needs-based program funded by general tax revenues, available to low-income individuals regardless of work history. SSDI is an insurance program based on Social Security work credits. SSI recipients typically receive Medicaid; SSDI recipients receive Medicare after a 24-month waiting period.

Question 2

A client receiving SSI wants to return to work but worries about losing her benefits. Which SSI work incentive allows her to set aside income or resources for an approved vocational goal without those amounts counting against her SSI eligibility?

Accepted Answer

Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS)

Answer

The Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS) allows SSI recipients to set aside money or other resources for an approved goal — such as education, vocational training, or starting a business — without those funds counting as SSI income or resources. The Trial Work Period applies to SSDI, not SSI.

Question 3

When a client's SSI/SSDI application is denied, the case manager should advise the client to take which action FIRST?

Accepted Answer

File a Request for Reconsideration within 60 days of receiving the denial notice

Answer

The Social Security appeals process begins with a Request for Reconsideration, which must be filed within 60 days (plus a 5-day mailing grace period) of the denial notice. Missing this deadline typically requires restarting the entire application process.

Question 4

Which federal health insurance program automatically covers most individuals approved for SSI benefits?

Accepted Answer

Medicaid

Answer

SSI recipients are typically automatically enrolled in Medicaid (administered by states), which provides comprehensive health coverage. SSDI recipients, by contrast, must wait 24 months after benefit approval before becoming eligible for Medicare.

Question 5

A client is at risk of losing Medicaid coverage due to a recent change in household income. The case manager's FIRST action should be to:

Accepted Answer

Review the client's income and explore alternative Medicaid eligibility pathways or other coverage options before coverage lapses

Answer

The case manager's first step is to assess the full picture — reviewing income, understanding applicable Medicaid categories (disability-based Medicaid, ACA expansion, etc.), and identifying whether the client may still qualify through another pathway before coverage is lost.

(CBHCM) Certified Behavioral Health Case Manager Practice Test

(CBHCM) Certified Behavioral Health Case Manager Practice Test

CBHCM Benefits and Entitlements Navigation