If you are disabled and have limited income and resources that make it difficult to meet basic needs, you may be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. This can help cover expenses for food, housing, and clothing so you can live with a little peace of mind.
A Toledo Supplementary Security Income (SSI) lawyer can help determine your eligibility and guide you through the process of applying for these benefits. Our seasoned team of SSD attorneys at Schaffer & Associates has extensive experience helping people navigate the process and can provide you with sound advice.
SSI is a program administered by the federal Social Security Administration (SSA). Unlike Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Social Security retirement benefits, SSI does not require employment for a certain period of time to be eligible. Instead, the program provides monthly cash payments to disabled individuals with limited income and resources.
The maximum monthly amount varies but is generally just under $1000 for individuals and just under $1,500 for couples. The SSA may reduce this based on an applicant’s income from working, living situation, and other sources such as food assistance.
Eligibility for SSI is limited to individuals with a medical condition that affects their ability to work, and the SSA carefully assesses all applications. Blindness is one of the qualifying medical conditions, along with respiratory disorders, skin disorders, and mental disorders.
It is important to know that SSI is generally unavailable to individuals who live in a halfway house, jail, prison, or other public institution, albeit with some exceptions. For example, individuals living in an emergency shelter for people without housing or an educational institution may be eligible to receive benefits. The SSA may also reduce the monthly payments based on an applicant’s living situation. Our knowledgeable attorneys can help people seeking SSI benefits in Toledo and the surrounding area understand the application process, their eligibility, and how much their monthly payments may be.
Applying for SSI benefits is a multi-step process that requires substantial preparation. The application must be filled out completely and correctly. Many applications are immediately denied simply because they are missing some information.
Applicants must provide the SSA with extensive information and documentation about their disability. This will require the names of doctors and hospitals, as well as medical tests and medication records.
An applicant must also provide documents showing proof of income and any other financial resources, including:
The SSA may also ask for information about an applicant’s living situation, such as the names of people they live with and any rental or lease agreements.
The many documents required for an SSI application can sometimes feel overwhelming, but our experienced lawyers will support applicants in Toledo and the surrounding area as they prepare for the process. An attorney from our firm can help applicants gather the necessary documents and complete the application. If the application is rejected, a proactive lawyer can appeal the decision.
If you think you are eligible for benefits, talk to a Toledo Supplemental Security Income (SSI) lawyer. Our seasoned team at Schaffer & Associates can help you prepare your application and provide support throughout the process.
Having a trusted attorney by your side can help your chances of getting approved for benefits. Schedule a consultation today to get started on your application.