Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program that administers monthly payments to people of limited resources. This program delivers funds to both adults and children based on various criteria, and many people can apply for SSI benefits.
In general, an SSI applicant must be 65 or older, totally or partially blind, or severely disabled. If the applicant cannot work, they must prove a lasting and severe medical condition that is expected to prevent them from working for at least 12 months.
An applicant may also demonstrate that their condition is expected to lead to death. Supplemental Security Income SSI is an important part of the Social Security program. Administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA), Social Security aims to help individuals and families by providing income, benefits, and insurance.
SSI Lawyers at Khattar Law, P.C.
At Khattar Law, P.C., our SSI lawyers understand how the SSA functions and the regulations it follows in approving benefits claims. We regularly advise clients on a wide variety of Social Security cases and claims, with regard to both SSDI and SSI.
Our seasoned SSI lawyers can assist applicants who seek disability benefits in a number of ways. First, we recognize that the application process can be challenging, and we ensure that every client’s application is completed fully and properly. Second, we can represent our clients at every step of the appeals process in the event they have faced denial of benefits from the SSA.
The determination of whether an individual should apply for SSI or whether they have eligibility for SSDI benefits is based on the applicant’s ability to show recent work history, characterized as “work credits.” In addition, SSDI applicants must also demonstrate an inability to resume working for at least one year. This typically includes all types of work, although some narrow exceptions exist.
In comparison, SSI is designed to help people of limited means and individuals can qualify based on financial need. Applicants may be 65 or older, severely disabled, or blind. Applicants must also show an inability to earn a living. People with little to no income may qualify, regardless of work history.
Many people who qualify for SSI payments also have long-term health problems, including physical disabilities and developmental impairments that prevent regular, substantial work. One important benefit of SSI eligibility is automatic qualification for Medicaid, which can relieve recipients’ anxiety about access to health care.
Medical disability criteria for adults are the same for both SSI and SSDI claims. In some cases, an applicant may pursue concurrent claims for SSI and SSDI.
Medical Disability Criteria for Children
The population of people who seek SSI benefits is broad. Some SSI applicants are divorced or widowed individuals who have spent most of their lives as homemakers. Applicants without job skills or work experience may still qualify for SSI.
At Khattar Law P.C., we have seen all types of clients. Some of our clients are children with physical, mental, or developmental problems that interfere with their education and growth.
Our San Diego Disability attorneys can advise you and your family members regarding your eligibility for SSI. We will review all necessary medical and financial information for your claim. In the case of SSI benefits, we will help ensure that your application is satisfactorily completed to improve your chances of approval. In borderline cases, we can evaluate whether there are any means by which you can responsibly protect your eligibility.
If the SSA rejects your initial application, we can help you to petition for reconsideration and prepare for your administrative appeals hearing.
If your benefits claim is denied at the administrative appeals level, we can pursue your case in federal court. We have achieved outstanding results for our SSI clients by ensuring that their applicants adequately portray their physical, mental or developmental impairments.
These impairments include:
- Cardiovascular problems, including past heart attacks or high blood pressure
- Cognitive dysfunction, such as traumatic brain injury complications
- Orthopedic problems, such as neck or back pain and other chronic pain
- Chronic or degenerative diseases, such as diabetes, lupus, or multiple sclerosis
Our SSI professionals have extensive experience, and we are committed to helping clients receive the benefits that they deserve.