Mobile Supplemental Security Income Lawyer Making Your Situation Easier
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program designed for lower-income individuals who are over the age of 65 or suffer from a disability (regardless of age). SSI benefits come from the Social Security Administration and are, for the most part, funded by general taxes and, in states that supplement Supplemental Security Income, from state funds. If you are on a fixed income, over 65, or suffering from a disability that’s making it difficult to work, SSI could be right for you. A Social Security attorney can sit down with you and explain each program’s criteria for you to apply for the benefits program that’s right for you.
Who Is Eligible for Supplemental Security Income?
Supplemental Security Income is designed specifically for individuals over 65, blind or disabled to the point of being unable to work and fit certain financial criteria. Generally, you must be a United States citizen currently residing in the United States. If you’re eligible for other Social Security benefits, such as retirement programs, you must apply for those first. That said, there are certain circumstances where you can receive funds from multiple programs. If you’re applying for SSI based on a physical disability and the Social Security Administration offers rehabilitation services, you must accept them.
The Social Security Administration will take a close look at your financial situation before awarding you benefits. They’ll take into consideration your income, including wages, pensions, and any Social Security benefits you’re already receiving. They’ll also look at your assets, bank accounts, and stock and bonds. A Social Security lawyer can take a similar look at your situation before you apply to make sure you go to the Social Security office with the best possible case for benefits.
How Do I Apply for Supplemental Security Income?
If you are a disabled adult, you can apply fairly easily online. If you’re applying on behalf of a disabled child, or are a non-disabled senior over age 65, SSI applications are not available online. These individuals will need to apply in person at a local Social Security office or by calling the Social Security Administration and applying over the phone. Regardless of how you apply, you’ll want to have a few key items handy, such as your Social Security card, birth certificate, information about your current residence, as many financial documents as possible (pay stubs, bank statements, mortgage statements, etc). Gathering the proper documents and getting them turned in on time can be a complex and stressful process, a Social Security attorney can work hand in hand with you to make sure everything is done correctly.
How Much Are Supplemental Security Income Payments?
Supplemental Security Income is supposed to be just that, supplemental. SSI is created to raise your monthly income up to a minimum level. The actual amount you receive depends entirely on other sources of income you have and how much they are. If you have additional income, you likely won’t get the full amount of SSI payments. If you have no other source of income, you will likely get the full amount. To learn more about the current SSI rates and eligibility factors, speak to an informed Alabama Social Security attorney.
What Happens If My Application for Supplemental Security Income Is Denied?
While it’s possible to navigate the SSI application process on your own, the truth is many applications are denied. Statistics show that individuals who apply for benefits with the help of an experienced Social Security attorney are almost three times more likely to get approved. And if you do get denied, the appeal process can be extremely confusing. If you’re just starting to think about applying for Supplemental Security Income, an attorney can make sure your application contains all the needed information for you to be approved. Likewise, if you’ve been denied, our Social Security law firm can handle the appeal process for you, taking a stressful situation off your plate. Call Walton Law LLC at 251-319-5354 and let us help you navigate the Social Security system and get the benefits you deserve.