Sometimes people just need a little extra help. For many, this comes in the form of government benefits. For example, millions of people receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefit payments every month from the Social Security Administration (“Social Security”). We are going to review how to apply for SSI benefits in this article.
SSI Benefits Fundamentals
Anyone can apply for this benefit, but Social Security only pays this monthly payment to qualified people. There’s no charge to fill out and submit your application.
According to Social Security, you also have a right to ask someone to represent you to help with your claim. This representative can even attend appointments with you.
If you feel you would like to apply for SSI, it’s important to understand how eligibility works.
Eligibility
Social Security offers eligibility to individuals who:
- are age 65 or older, blind, or disabled and who
- have limited income and resources;
- meet citizenship requirements;
- live in the United States or the Northern Mariana Islands;
- are not confined to an institution paid for by the government;
- files an application; and
- meets any other requirements.
If you meet all the criteria, you will next need to apply for SSI.
The Application Process When You Apply for SSI
Due to COVID-19, people who meet the following criteria can file for SSI online:
- Between the ages of 18 and 65,
- Single and never been married,
- A U.S. citizen living in the United States or the Northern Mariana Islands,
- Never applied for or received SSI before.
- Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and SSI.
Generally, you and your Social Security lawyer will need to submit an application. You will need to give Social Security permission to look at certain records, including medical records. If you are missing records, Social Security personnel should be able to help you pull together all your supporting documents.
After submitting your application, someone from Social Security will contact you and your attorney. Social Security will review your application and your records before deciding whether you will or will not get SSI benefits. You and your lawyer have the right to appeal if Social Security denies your request for benefits.
Do You Need to Apply for SSI? We Can Help.
Sometimes in life you just need to ask for help from someone with more experience. Your Social Security disability attorney will understand the system and how it works when you apply for SSI.
Talk to an attorney about your eligibility for disability benefits. The attorneys at The Law Offices of Martin Taller have more than 50 years’ legal experience, much of it involving Social Security Disability Insurance claims. They can help you with your application and any appeals that might be needed.
Call us at 714-385-8100 for a free consultation. Though our office is located in Anaheim, we assist clients throughout Southern California.
