Supplement Security Income (SSI) is a Federal Assistance program from the Social Security Administration that provides income to people who meet the following requirements: Permanently disabled; Individual whose assets are less than $2,000.00; Couples whose assets are less than $3,000.00; or 65 years or older.
You apply for Supplement Security Income just like Social Security Disability Benefits. The denial and “Request for Reconsideration” is the same.
Since the Social Security Disability benefits come through the Social Security Tax you pay in your income. Social Security Disability is generally given to people who have worked five of the past ten years. If that doesn’t apply to you, you can only get benefits through Supplement Security Income.
With Supplement Security Income benefits you are paid back to the date of your application, unlike Social Security Disability Benefits, where you have a 5-month waiting period.
Do you need an Attorney for either Social Security Disability Benefits or Supplement Security Income? You are not required to have an attorney but the best way to be sure that you receive full benefits and a fair hearing you should have a representative who has an understanding of the Social Security Regulations and Law and is interested in fighting for you and your rights as a citizen.
You are only obligated to pay an attorney fee if you are awarded benefits. Lawyers receive 25% of the back benefits, or $6,000.00, whichever is less and is automatically withheld from the Social Security Administration to be paid to your attorney.
Are there any other charges for preparing my case? There are times when your attorney will have to obtain medical records relating to your disability. It is necessary to pay the doctors for this information. In addition, occasionally an attorney will incur other costs and expenses in preparing your case. You will always be fully aware of what these costs are, and how they can substantially help your case.
At Meyer, Puklich & Merriam our attorneys can help you with filing an SSI claim to dealing with a denial. Call our Eden Prairie office at 952-249-0111 or use our online contact form to schedule an appointment.
