What you need to know about the Supplementary Disability Allowance

What is the Supplementary Disability Allowance?

The Supplementary Disability Allowance (ASI) is a benefit paid by the French Social Security. It is designed to provide additional financial support to people who are recognized as disabled and whose resources remain insufficient to cover basic needs.

This financial assistance is intended to supplement other pensions, such as the disability pension, to ensure a minimum income for living with dignity. Therefore, the ASI plays a crucial role in preventing poverty among people with disabilities. More generally, it aims to preserve the health of seniors and the most vulnerable populations.

To be eligible for ASI, individuals must meet several conditions:

• Have resources that do not exceed a certain ceiling ( regularly adjusted ).
• Already receiving a disability pension.
• Reside in France for tax purposes.

As part of the French social security system, the ASI is one of the many social protection measures designed to support individuals in the face of life’s uncertainties. It is financed by social security contributions and managed by the Primary Health Insurance Funds (CPAM) 

What is the difference between disability pension and ASI?

Disability pension and Supplementary Disability Allowance are two forms of financial support for people with disabilities. Disability pension is paid to people who have lost a significant portion of their working capacity due to illness or disability and are not yet eligible for retirement.

It is classified into 3 categories, depending on the degree of disability and remaining work capacity:

• Category 1: for those who have lost at least 66% of their working capacity but can still carry out a professional activity.
• Category 2: for those who have lost at least 66% of their working capacity and cannot carry out professional activity.
• Category 3: For those who are completely disabled and dependent, requiring the constant assistance of another person.

The ASI, on the other hand, is a supplementary financial aid intended for those who already receive a disability pension (or certain other pensions), but whose income is not sufficient to cover basic needs. The ASI is awarded based on the applicant’s resources, and its amount is adjusted to guarantee a minimum level of income.

In summary, the disability pension aims to directly compensate for the loss of working capacity due to disability, while the ASI is intended to guarantee a minimum level of income for those whose existing pensions do not cover basic needs.

How to apply for ASI?

Applying for Supplementary Disability Benefit can seem complex at first. By following these 7 detailed steps, you can ensure your application is complete and submitted correctly.

Step 1 Eligibility Check

Before you begin your application, make sure you meet the eligibility requirements for ASI  You must already be receiving a disability pension, nd your total resources must be below the ASI ceiling.

Step 2 Collecting the necessary documents

Gather all required documents that will support your application. This includes

• A copy of your disability pension notice.
• Your latest tax notice or non-tax notice.
• Proof of all other sources of income.
• Proof of stable and effective residence in France.

Step 3 Completing the application form

Obtain the specific ASI application form from your Primary Health Insurance Fund (CPAM) or download it from the official Health Insurance website.  Carefully complete all sections of the form, making sure to answer each question accurately.

Step 4 Submission of the file

Once you have completed the form and gathered all the necessary documents, submit your file to your CPAM . It is recommended to do this submission in person or by registered mail to ensure traceability and receipt of your file.

Step 5 Follow up on the request

After submitting your application, you can track the status of your request via your personal account on the Health Insurance website or by contacting your CPAM directly. Pay attention to any communication from the CPAM that may require additional information or supporting documents.

Step 6 Receiving the decision

The CPAM will assess your application and inform you of its decision by mail. If your application isaccepted , he mail will indicate the amount of ASI that will be paid to you and the payment terms.

Step 7 (if applicable) Dispute in case of refusal

If your application is denied and you wish to contest this decision, you can appeal to the amicable appeals committee of your CPAM. Prepare all additional documents and supporting evidence to support your appeal.

This guide aims to simplify the ASI application process and increase your chances of receiving this valuable assistance. Don’t hesitate to ask for additional help or advice from your CPAM or a disability support association if you encounter any difficulties.

How not to repay the Supplementary Disability Allowance?

The issue of ASI reimbursement can raise concerns among beneficiaries. Fortunately, there are clear guidelines that define the circumstances under which a refund can be requested.

Reimbursement of the ASI can only be required in certain specific cases, in particular in the event of:

• Error in the calculation of resources: if the income declared during the application was underestimated, whether by error or omission, and this led to an over-allocation, you will have to reimburse the difference.
• Change in financial situation: if the beneficiary’s financial situation improves significantly after the ASI is awarded (for example, in the event of a large inheritance or a significant increase in income), this may lead to a reassessment of the ASI and potentially a request for reimbursement of the amounts unduly received.