Am I Eligible for Supplemental Security Income?

Many clients have questions about income during the Social Security Disability application process. Mostly, the issues revolve around making end’s meat, paying bills and keeping roofs over their heads. Finding the bare minimum to survive can be difficult when injuries prevent normally productive employees from working. They feel as though they’re burdens, and they’re unsure of where they can find even the smallest amount of money to get by until disability benefits. Our disability attorneys explain Supplemental Security Income as a possible solution.

What is Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?

This form of financial aid is available to only a small segment of the population meeting stringent requirements. Where the federal government manages Social Security Disability exclusively, SSI is a cooperative effort between the feds and the state governments. Because the system is a hybrid relationship between governments, the benefits you can receive depends on the state you’re living at the time. Give us a call today and our legal team can assist you in determining your eligibility.

How Much Are SSI Benefit Amounts?

Total benefit amounts vary, though the minimum you could receive (in any state) in SSI is about $710 per month if you’re single, and $1,066 per month if you’re married. Those figures are current as of 2013, but they may change from year to year. The federal government adjusts the amount each January based on the cost of living in the United States. Consult with experienced legal professionals to determine the minimum payments for the year in which you’re applying for benefits.

SSI Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for benefits under SSI you must meet four criteria to the letter or the state government will deny your application: be blind, disabled, or over 65 years old. Be a citizen of the United States or meet strict requirements as a naturalized citizen. Earn monthly income no higher than between $700 and $1,400, depending on your state of residency. Own $2,000 or less in real property if you’re single, or $3,000 or less in real property if you’re married.

These requirements may seem steep, but remember why this particular fund is available: to provide immediate financial assistance for those who are permanently injured and on the verge of financial collapse. This is far from a winding lottery ticket. It’s a hand up off the ground.

Once you obtain approval for SSI benefits, you also gain approval for Medicaid and food stamps. These two assistance programs provide a monthly stipend to purchase food items and grant you access to the federal government’s health insurance for low-income families and individuals. These combine to create a true safety net for you while you struggle to recover from an illness or injury that has affected you so terribly.

Call Our Philadelphia + Bucks County Social Security Disability Lawyers Today

If you have questions about your application for Social Security Disability benefits or SSI, contact our Philadelphia and Bucks County disability attorneys today for a free consultation. We don’t get paid unless we recover benefits for you, so there’s no losing to lose in choosing our legal team to help you in your time of need.