Finding out your application for SSI benefits has been approved is a big relief. Finding out the SSA will be reviewing your claim at a later date can be upsetting. However, SSI redetermination is just a normal part of the system. It’s just helpful to understand a little more about how the process works.
Why?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) manages several benefits, including Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Since SSI is a ‘needs-based’ program, applicants must prove limited income and resources to qualify for benefits. However, proving eligibility is not a “one-time” thing.
Every so often, the SSA performs a redetermination to make sure:
- You are still eligible for benefits; and
- You are receiving the correct amount of benefits.
Some people may no longer qualify for benefits, while others may see their benefit amount increased or decreased.
When?
The timeline varies based on certain factors:
- A disabled child may be re-assessed at age 18.
- Most adult recipients are reviewed every 1 to 6 years.
Certain changes in a beneficiary’s life may trigger a redetermination, including marriage.
How?
During an SSI redetermination, the SSA reviews the beneficiary’s income, resources, and living arrangements. Generally, the SSA does this in one of three ways:
- By Telephone. You will receive a letter setting up a specific date or time to have a phone interview with an SSA worker.
- In Person. The SSA will send you a letter telling you when to appear at the local Social Security office.
- By Mail. You will receive a redetermination form to complete and return to the SSA office.
During both the telephone and in-person interviews, an SSA worker will fill out forms based on the information you provide. Also, you may have to submit documents like the following:
- Bank statements,
- Paystubs,
- Income tax returns,
- Proof of other types of income (pensions, unemployment, worker’s compensation, for example),
- Life insurance policies, and
- Receipts proving monthly expenses like utilities and rent.
In some cases, you may have trouble gathering the documents you need. Let the SSA know. They may be able to help you get anything information you are missing.
Some Important Things to Remember
- SSI redeterminations happen.
- You’ll have to respond to the SSA, generally within 30 days.
- If you need to reschedule a phone or in-person interview, you usually can.
Before the SSI Redetermination, You Have the SSI Application Process
The attorneys at The Law Offices of Martin Taller have more than 50 years’ experience in the legal field. Much of their work involves Social Security disability cases, including applying for SSI benefits. For a free consultation, call us at 714-385-8100. Though our office is located in Anaheim, we assist clients throughout Southern California.
