Frequently Asked Questions About Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Part 1

Q: What is the definition of disability?

A: Under the law, a disability is any medical condition that prevents you from maintaining Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) due to a medically determinable physical or mental impairment.  The condition must last for a continuous period of 12 months or result in death.

Q: What are the requirements to qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?

A: In order to be eligible for SSI, you must be disabled and have limited income and resources. Generally, if you are eligible for welfare, you are eligible for SSI.

Q: When should I apply for SSI benefits?

A: You should apply for SSI benefits as soon as you become disabled.

Q: How do I apply for benefits?

A:  You may go to the Social Security Administration’s website and complete an online application on your own or call the SSA at 800.325.0778 to schedule a filing appointment. You may also come into one of our offices so we can walk you through the online application process.

Q: What information will I need to apply for SSI benefits?

A: You will need the following information ready to make a full application:

• Your Social Security number,
• Your birth or baptismal certificate,
• Names, addresses, and phone numbers of the doctors, caseworkers, hospitals, and clinics that took care of you and the dates of your visits,
• Names and dosage of all medicine you take,
• Medical records from your doctors, therapists, hospitals, clinics, and caseworkers that you already have in your possession,
• A summary of where you have worked and the kind of work you have done and,
• A copy of your most recent W-2 Form.

Q: What are the key elements used in determining my disability?

A: The following are the biggest considerations used to determine your application.

• Are you working?
• Is your medical condition “severe”?
• Is your medical condition on the list of impairments?
• Can you do the work you did before?
• Can you do any other type of work?

If you have further questions and want to approach your SSI application with confidence, contact the expert staff of Jan Dils Attorneys at Law at 877.526.3457, for a free initial consultation today. We have an experienced team of disability attorneys, and one of our representatives will be happy to answer your questions. If you’d prefer to contact us online, fill out this form and we will respond to you shortly.