Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
The Social Security Administration (SSA) maintains two types of Social Security disability benefit programs: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). At the law office of Baker & Baker, we can help you understand the difference between these two programs, understand the benefit or benefits programs (type) you’re qualified for, and file your claim for SSI benefits. For your free consultation with our law firm, please call us directly today for the help and support you need.
What Is Supplemental Security Income?
Similar to SSDI, the SSI program is a government program providing monthly benefits. In addition to helping those who are disabled, SSI benefits are also available to the aged and the blind. This program provides a safety net of monthly cash assistance and Medicaid insurance so those in need can use it to meet your basic financial and medical needs.
Supplemental Security Income is for those who are of limited income and financial resources.
Eligibility Requirements for SSI Benefits
- Disabled (see the qualifications for a disability below); and
- Have limited income;
- Have limited resources; and
- Be a U.S. citizen and a resident of the United States.
OR
- Aged (65 years or older – one does not have to show a disability if age 65 or older);
- Or Blind; and
- Have limited income;
- Have limited resources; and
- Be a U.S. citizen and a resident of the United States.
What qualifies as disabled?
One thing that is unique about Supplemental Security Income benefits compared to Social Security Disability Insurance benefits is that a person does not have to have earned work credits in order to qualify for SSI; those who are under 18 may be eligible for SSI benefits. As such, there are two different definitions for disability considered by the SSA — one for children (those under 18 years of age), and one for adults.
For children, a child will have a qualifying disability in the eyes of the SSA if they have a physical or mental impairment that results in marked and severe functional limitations; and has lasted or is expected to last for at least 12 months or result in death.
For adults, in order to be considered disabled, one must have a medical condition that has lasted or is expected to last for at least 12 months or result in death, and that condition must prevent the adult from engaging in substantial gainful activity. In other words, the condition must be severe enough that it prevents a person from working and earning an income above the threshold set by the SSA.
What qualifies as limited income or resources?
The other part of qualifying for SSI benefits is not just proving that you have a qualifying disability (or are aged or blind), but also that you are of limited income or resources. Income includes any money you earn from work (wages), any sources of money and income that you receive from other sources (such as veterans’ benefits, Social Security benefits, unemployment benefits, etc.), and the value of free housing and food that you receive.
Resources are also considered when calculating eligibility for SSI benefits. Resources may include the value of a life insurance policy, cash, bank accounts, if you own more than one car or if you own a car and another motor vehicle like a motorcycle, own or have an interest in real property other than your homestead, are the types of resources and/or assets considered when determining if one in financial need for SSI.
For the year 2021, the income limit for an individual is $794 per month, and the income limit for a couple is $1,191 per month. The resource limit for an individual is $2,000; for a couple, it is $3,000. Not all income is countable, so one could possibly earn income a little more than $794 per month and still be financially eligible for SSI.
Other Requirements for SSI Benefits
Having a qualifying disability, being aged or blind, and being of limited income and resources are the primary criteria one must satisfy to receive SSI benefits, in addition to being a U.S. citizen and resident of the United States. Even if you have a qualifying disabling condition and can show financial need one’s benefits will be suspended if you are incarcerated or living in a government rest home (facility), halfway house, or other public institution, with a few exceptions to this general rule. Finally, it’s important to note you may be able to receive SSI benefits in conjunction with other government benefits, including SSDI benefits depending upon eligibility for both.
How a Supplemental Security Income Attorney Can Help
Navigating the Social Security disability claims and benefits process can be confusing. You may not understand which type of disability benefit program you’re eligible for, how to apply, or what application materials you need to submit. Another consideration is this: the Social Security Administration denies millions of claims each year.
When you work with a qualified SSI attorney, such as the lawyers at the law firm of Baker & Baker, you’ll have a legal professional on your side who knows exactly what the SSI is looking for in an applicant’s materials and what you need to do to satisfy eligibility requirements.
An attorney can help you to prepare and file your application, as well as appeal a denied claim. An attorney can also help you to understand what other benefit programs you may be eligible for and what to do if you don’t qualify for SSI benefits, your claim is denied, and you’ve exhausted your appeal options.
Call the SSI Attorneys at Baker & Baker Today
At the law firm of Baker & Baker, we know how important it is for you to receive SSI benefits. Cash benefits can have a significant impact on one’s ability to support themselves and cover their basic needs, including both food and housing. If you are of limited income and resources and are blind, aged, or disabled, you may be eligible for SSI benefits through the Social Security Administration.
To learn more about this program, the types of benefits available, how to file a claim, and how an experienced SSI claims attorney can help, please call the office of Baker & Baker directly today, send us a message online, or visit our office. We always offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, which means that you won’t have to pay us out-of-pocket for our services. Contact us now to get started.