“I would recommend anyone looking for a lawyer for social security to hire Mr. Earley! He was very informative and we won my case! Everyone in his office is extremely nice and very helpful. You can definitely tell that they know what they are doing and they go above and beyond to make sure you’re taken care of. Thank you so much for your help!”
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program to provide basic needs assistance for the blind, aged or disabled who have little or no income sources. Qualifying and filing for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) can be complicated, as there are income and asset thresholds involved, and other determining factors. Experienced Disability Lawyer Sam Earley can explain more about the qualifications and help you with filing a claim.
How Are Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Different?
Many people confuse Social Security (SS) with Supplemental Security Income (SSI) because the names and acronyms are very similar. Although Social Security and SSI are handled through the same government entity, they are different in significant ways.
However, many who may qualify for Supplemental Security Income may also be entitled to Social Security benefits. In fact, when you file for Supplemental Security Income, you are also automatically applying for Social Security benefits. Here are some fundamental ways Social Security and Supplemental Security Income are different:
- Social Security benefits are “earned” in that you have paid into the program with your FICA taxes or self-employment taxes. You and certain members of your family are eligible for payments after attaining a certain age or other qualifying marks. SSI benefits are not based on your prior work history or any taxes you have previously paid.
- Many states also provide medical assistance (Medicaid) that covers hospital care, physician care, prescription medications, and some other health needs to recipients of Supplemental Security Income. This is not automatically available to Social Security recipients.
- Some states also provide a supplemental payment to recipients of Supplemental Security Income benefits that meet certain qualifications. This is also not provided automatically to Social Security recipients.
- Many states provide food assistance for certain recipients of Supplemental Security Income. Often, an application for Supplemental Security Income in that state automatically applies the recipient for food assistance. This is not automatically included in Social Security.
How Do I Qualify for Supplemental Security Income?
In order to qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), applicants must meet these minimum requirements:
- You must be a United States citizen with proof of citizenship, a naturalized citizen, or a qualified alien.
- You must reside in one of the 50 United States, the District of Columbia, or the Northern Mariana Islands.
- You cannot be absent from the United States for a full calendar month or 30 or more consecutive days.
- You must be at least age 65, blind or disabled.
- You must have income and assets below the established threshold levels.
Determining whether or not you exceed the threshold levels for Supplemental Security Income is an involved process with many factors. Not all your assets can be counted, and some guidance from our experienced Supplemental Security Income attorneys is usually necessary to determine your eligibility. There are also stipulations that apply to spouses and handicapped children.
Get Help from a Qualified Supplemental Security Income Lawyer
Supplemental Security Income payments are intended to assist with basic needs expenses for those with limited other income or assets. You may be qualified for other programs if you meet the requirements for SSI. Our Supplemental Security Income Attorneys can help you calculate the factors correctly and see if filing for SSI is in your best interests. We can also answer your questions about Supplemental Security Income eligibility and other available government programs. Contact our office to schedule a free consultation today.
Sam Earley, Experienced Social Security Disability Lawyer
Experienced Social Security Disability Attorney Sam Earley can help you navigate the often complex and confusing government explanations and paperwork required to determine your SSI eligibility. He and his team are dedicated to helping everyone get the benefits they are due. Many people struggle to live because of various circumstances beyond their control. Let Disability Attorney Sam Earley and his skilled team work for you!
Contact Our Social Security Disability Lawyers Today
Do you believe you could qualify for SSI? Call our Disability Attorneys at 770-881-7171 or complete our online contact form for a free consultation. You will enjoy personal service from a compassionate and talented attorneys who care about their clients.