If you're unable to earn a living and have a very limited income, there's a chance that you qualify for Supplemental Security Income Benefits. If eligible, you could receive up to more than $7000 per year.
While rarely approved on the first application, it's quite possible to receive SSI on appeal. It's important to remember, however, that social security law is complex and the governmental red tape can seem endless.
SSI Lawyers Can Help
The lawyers at Packard Packard & LaPray can help you know your options, and cut through the red tape of forms, questionnaires, medical records and appeals. The disability is not retroactive, so it's important to file as soon as possible. For more information, contact us today.
Who Is Eligible For SSI?
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a monthly payment based on need. Unlike social security benefits, earned work credits are not a requirement for SSI. To receive SSI, an individual must prove:
1) That he or she is at least 65 years of age or older, OR
2) That he or she is disabled. Disability means inability to engage in any significantly gainful employment because of a significant physical or mental impairment which can be expected to last for 12 months or more, OR
3) *That he or she is blind.
In addition to meeting one of the above criteria, to receive SSI a claimant must show that his or her income must be below certain limits. The income limits are different, depending on the state the individual lives in, and the number of people living in the residence. Also total household income cannot exceed $2000 for a single person, and $3000 for a married individual. Other factors also play an important role in determining whether a person is eligible to receive SSI. Ultimately, it is important to contact an attorney to find out whether or not SSI can be paid.
Benefit details
The SSI program provides a monthly cash benefit of up to $637 for a person to help pay for the cost of basic needs such as food, shelter and clothing. In most states, SSI eligibility usually assures concurrent access to important medical coverage under the various state Medicaid programs and sometimes access to Section 8 housing benefits. In some states, supplemental payments are made by the state, increasing the cash assistance available through SSI. For example, the state of California increases the cash assistance by up to $233 per month as of 2007.
