If you are disabled and unable to work, you may qualify for Social Security disability benefits, including Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
The SSI program can be confusing. The Supplemental Security Income program aims to provide eligible recipients with financial assistance when they are no longer able to work.
The state denies many SSI applications on the first filing. If you were denied despite meeting the SSI eligibility requirements, call a Supplemental Security Income lawyer today at the Law Offices of Anidjar & Levine.
Understanding Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
The SSI program is often confused with the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program. It is important to note that these are two different programs. Although the filing process between the two is similar, the SSDI program requires that recipients have worked long enough to qualify for benefits.
The SSI program is needs-based. There is no work history requirement.
General requirements for SSI include:
- The applicant must have a documented disability or blindness.
- The applicant must have limited income.
- The applicant must have limited assets.
How We Can Assist You With Your Supplemental Security Income Case
When you work with a disability lawyer in Fort Lauderdale from our firm, you can be sure that you will have all your questions answered and worries put away. Besides offering you concrete explanations and options regarding your situation, we can also take care of everything needed in the process. But let’s get into more details.
Complimentary Consultation
With a complimentary consultation, you can get answers to any questions you might have about the SSI program. We will also evaluate your case and discuss what documents may help establish eligibility.
File an Appeal
It is possible that you will receive a denial for your first SSI application. If your application is, or was denied, a Supplemental Security Income lawyer in Fort Lauderdale can assist you in filing an appeal.
Let Us Assist You in Collecting the Necessary Documentation
Much of the filing process involves collecting the necessary documentation. We will assist you in collecting the information that will support your case. We may need the following documents:
- Social Security card
- Birth certificate
- Proof of U.S. citizenship
- W-2 forms or tax returns
In addition to these forms, we must also provide documentation that further supports the SSI application. These are a few areas the SSI office will consider:
Proof of Resources
Eligible applicants must have minimal resources or personal assets. Examples of proof of resources include documents like bank statements, deeds, insurance policies, certificate of deposits, and title or registration papers.
Proof of Living Arrangement
We must also provide documents that prove lease or rent arrangements. This includes the name and date of birth of all residents and a breakdown of all household costs.
Medical Sources
We will also need to demonstrate medical conditions that limit the ability to work. This includes medical reports, names and addresses of medical providers, medical services received, and a list of all prescriptions taken.
You could receive a denial if your Supplemental Security Income application is missing any of these important documents. The application process is also not complete until the state has received all of the required documents. Failing to provide the necessary documentation or to file it in a timely manner could result in losing owed benefits.
Why You Need A Supplemental Security Income Lawyer in Ft. Lauderdale
Being denied for Supplemental Security Income program benefits can be frustrating, especially when you are counting on that income. Instead of giving up on the funds that you may be eligible for, have your case reviewed by someone familiar with the SSI program requirements.
Call a Ft. Lauderdale Supplemental Security Income lawyer today at the Law Offices of Anidjar & Levine.