Supplemental Security Income (SSI) provides crucial support to blind and disabled people across the country who have limited resources and few other options. Qualifying for SSI benefits can be difficult but an approved application could be life-changing.
If you believe you are eligible, a skilled Social Security Disability lawyer could help you apply and advise you on whether your current financial situation is likely to result in compensation. This process can be difficult for the average person to understand: let a nationwide Supplemental Security Income lawyer help you every step of the way.
Only certain people qualify for benefits through SSI. Both adults and children may be eligible, but they must have limited assets and a recognized disability. An SSI attorney could review each of these issues on behalf of an applicant – no matter where in the country he or she lives.
These benefits are means-tested and the threshold to qualify is low. Most individuals who qualify are unable to work, and all successful applicants must not have their total assets above a certain threshold. This includes more than just paychecks or savings, as the government also takes into account unemployment benefits, workers’ compensation awards, and even support from friends and family. There are many ways someone might undercount his or her available assets and end up having their SSI claim denied.
Eligibility for Supplemental Security Income also depends on being blind, disabled, or at full retirement age. Disabilities also have their own definition. A person is considered disabled for this purpose if he or she has an injury or illness that is likely to either result in death or persist for a minimum of 12 months. An applicant must be unable to perform any substantial gainful activity, which means performing work that is generally done for profit.
The Social Security Administration operates two distinct benefit programs. In addition to SSI, there is an additional option known as Social Security Disability Insurance. More commonly known as SSDI, these benefits are also provided to people with disabling conditions, but the qualifications are a bit different.
Unlike SSI, there is no means testing with SSDI. Instead, this option is intended for people with a qualifying work history who are no longer able to maintain substantial gainful employment. To get the maximum benefits available, they must have earned a minimum number of work credits over the previous decade. With Supplemental Security, work credits are not considered.
One of the ways a nationwide Supplemental Security Income attorney could help is during the appellate process. There is an opportunity to appeal a denied claim or an award that is unreasonably low.
This process can play out in four different stages. First, the Social Security Administration may agree to reconsider an original decision. If that does not work, there may be a hearing with an administrative law judge.
The highest level of review within the SSA is known as the Appeals Council, but they will not hear every case. The final option is filing a lawsuit in federal court to have a judge reconsider the evidence presented. A lawyer may provide experienced representation if an applicant must appeal his or her denial.
Supplemental Security Income can be an incredibly helpful program for disabled individuals who do not possess significant wealth and are ineligible for SSDI. Due to the strict income and asset requirements, it can be difficult to come by these benefits. You deserve help, and the right legal team can guide you every step of the way.
A nationwide supplemental security income lawyer is ready to help you get the benefits you need. Contact us today for a free consultation – no matter where in the country you live.
To Schedule an Appointment, Call Us Toll Free at 1.877.873.8208 or Email Us for a Prompt Response.
Jan Dils, Attorneys at Law
