I was on SSI for several years while I was in college. I got a decent job after I graduated and SSI told me that I had to pay it all back and gladly I did. I wouldn't have completed school and where I was living if it wasn't for SSI, but thing is I *paid* all of it back. I've seen some people who got jobs manage to get away without paying them back and that irritates me. Funny thing is, several years after working, SSI called me and told me that based on my pay I needed to get on medicare! I said, sheesh go away and I don't even need it! I'm fine without the government's help! Though I thought my pay was pretty good at the time. Don't know what they're thinking?
Anyhow... I fully agree with Freaky and Liza's comment... I know life isn't a bowl of cherries, but damn I'm working hard for you...