The United States Government’s Social Security Administration (SSA) provides direct benefits to recipients through several programs: Social Security retirement, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Each program is handled differently and has different eligibility requirements. For example, SSI applicants must meet strict income and resource requirements. Still, many people do qualify for SSI benefits.
SSI Matters Because…
The monthly payments provided through this program help recipients pay their monthly expenses. Generally, the money pays for basic needs.
To qualify for SSI benefits, people must be:
- At least age 65 or blind or disabled
- Low income and have limited resources
- A citizen or national of the United States or aliens who meet program requirements
- Residents of the U.S., District of Columbia, Northern Mariana Islands
During the application process, you will support your claim with information about:
- You, your spouse, and your children;
- Your medical condition, including medical providers; and
- Your work history.
Marital status, living arrangements, and other criteria also may affect an applicant’s eligibility.
Some Important SSI Numbers
To get a better idea of the impact SSI benefits have on society as a whole, let’s look at who receives SSI benefits:
Total number of recipients: over 8 million, including 1.2 million children with disabilities
- 59% are adults age 18-64
- 27% are elderly
- 15% are children
SSI benefits to children can be broken down as follows:
- 70,000 have congenital disorders
- 163,000 have autism
- 261,000 have developmental conditions
- 117,000 have intellectual disabilities
- 101,000 have nervous system disorders
- 13,000 have cancer
(figures from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities report “Supplemental Security Income (SSI))
The amount of benefits varies depending on the applicant’s situation, but the following data typically applies:
- $783 is the 2020 maximum monthly payment for an individual
- $1,175 is the maximum monthly benefit for a recipient with an eligible spouse
- 200% of poverty is the usual income limit
- $2,000 is the maximum resource limit for an individual
- $3,000 is the maximum resource limit for a couple
As you face your monthly bills and shrinking bank account, ask yourself if you can qualify for SSI benefits.
A Disability Attorney Can Help Every Step of the Way
There’s one more important statistic: about 67% of SSI applications are denied. With such a high rejection rate, it makes sense to get the help you need. Your Social Security lawyer can review your case and help you through the application process.
For a free consultation with an experienced Social Security attorney, consult with an attorney at The Law Offices of Martin Taller. Call us at 714-385-8100. We assist clients through Southern California from our home office in Anaheim.
