Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is income from the US federal government that is designed to help people who qualify with some of their basic expenses. It is important to recognize that SSI is not the same as with Social Security Disability Insurance payments. SSI is not available to everyone; as a matter of fact SSI disability lawyers will tell you there are very few people that qualify. The primary considerations for SSI are old age or being disabled with an economic need regardless of age. Supplemental Security Income can be beneficial to those over 65 who have extremely low or no income. SSI can also apply to children who are blind or have a severe disability. One of the main benefits for those who do qualify for SSI is that they are automatically entitled to Medicaid which can help substantially to defer their costs of medical attention and in many states the recipient can also avail of food stamps.
SSI for the elderly, the blind and the disabled was initially created in the 1970s. Prior to SSI people who fell into these groups were supported by the state in which they lived. Once an applicant qualifies for SSI they receive financial support. The amount of support is regulated to the federal government but some states also make a contribution, as a result the amount the beneficiary gets can differ between states. In addition, the amount the federal government provides depends on the income, if any, of the recipient. As the formulas that are used to determine the amount are quite complex it is always a good idea to consult with local SSI disability lawyers.
The majority of those who apply for Supplemental Security Income do so through a local Social Security office. When applying for benefits the applicant must present considerable medical proof of the disability as well as proof of income. During the time the benefits continue the recipient can be called upon to resubmit medical information and proof of income that may have an impact on their status.
Applying for SSI does not automatically entitle the applicant to benefits; many claims are disallowed although the applicant can appeal the denial of benefits. In some cases the decision will be reversed with a simple appeal but in difficult cases SSI disability lawyers may be necessary to fight for the rights of the claimant. Even when the initial application is approved it can take some time before the applicant sees his or her monthly income begin but once it does begin it is backdated to the date of the initial application.
If your application for Supplemental Security Income is denied you may need to engage SSI disability lawyers to help you overturn the decision. You are invited to contact the Davis-Morris Law Firm. Visit us at website.
