Supplementary Security Income Guidelines And Tips

Supplementary Security Income or SSI differs from other Social Security programs in a variety of ways. Though disability and retirement programs generally pay out benefits to a specific demographic, SSI has a much broader reach. In addition, SSI does not come from Social Security Taxes, but rather, is funded with tax revenues and provided to individuals in need of help with ordinary living expenses such as a home and food.

Limited Resources, Low-Income

The main qualification for those looking to obtain benefits is that they are low income. This means that the individual makes under a designated amount in income each month while also having limited resources. Resources can refer to individuals or people within the family who are able to contribute to monthly expenses. Resources can also refer to cash and money found in investments and savings. In most cases, if you happen to be disable, the SSA or Social Security Administration will not count your medical expenses as part of your total income.

Who is Eligible?

Well it’s not as easy as it looks. In order to quality, individuals must be low income AND be blind, disabled or over the age of 65. The SSA generally deems individuals disabled if they have a long-term condition that makes it hard or impossible to work. Temporary conditions and injuries do not count. The disability should be expected to last at least one year or have an expectancy of resulting in death. Individuals need not be disabled to collect benefits if they are 65 or older; rather, they must meet the low-income requirements.

Additional Guidelines

In order to collect SSI, you will be required to possess U.S. citizenship and live within one of the 50 U.S. states, Washington, D.C. or the Northern Mariana Islands. Military families who choose to live elsewhere are an exception. Students studying abroad may also qualify. Individuals with a current arrest warrant for a felony will not be eligible.

Screening

Those curious in finding out whether they are eligible for benefits may decide to use the Social Security Association’s benefit eligibility Screening Tool. The process is quick, easy and should be completed in only 10 minutes.

Attorneys

If you believe you should be receiving supplementary security income but have been denied, it may be time to get in touch with an attorney. Though lawyers are not allowed to assist in the SSI claim filing process, they can file an appeal on your behalf if the claim is denied. The attorney will then be able to represent you at a hearing and provide the court with information by which to help you obtain the benefits you rightfully deserve.

If you or someone you know are interested in learning more about SSI law, your best best is to get in touch with an attorney with experience in the area. He or she will be able to evaluate your case and offer up advise and ideas to help you get the answers you’re after.