At The Law Offices of Dr. Bill LaTour, we specialize in helping clients whose Supplemental Security Income applications have been denied by the Social Security Administration. Dr. Bill LaTour provides guidance and representation throughout the legal process, working diligently to secure the benefits individuals deserve. Contact our Supplemental Security Income lawyer in San Bernardino at (909) 316-5861 to learn more about how he can assist you in navigating the appeals process.
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Table of Contents
- Supplemental Security Income Prerequisites
- Differences Between Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
- Are Children Eligible to Receive SSI?
- Limitations to Take-Home Pay In Addition to SSI
- Steps to Apply for SSI
- Appealing a Rejected SSI Claim
- Advantages of Working with a Supplemental Security Income Lawyer in San Bernardino
- Call Dr. Bill LaTour Today for a Free Case Review
Supplemental Security Income Prerequisites
When would someone need to pursue supplemental security income? Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is typically pursued when individuals have limited income and resources and are disabled, blind, or aged 65 or older. It provides financial assistance to meet basic needs such as food, shelter, and clothing.
To qualify for supplemental security income (SSI) benefits through the social security administration (SSA), specific requirements must be met. They include the following:
- Age: Must be 65 years old or older, blind, or disabled.
- Income: Must have limited income and resources.
- Citizenship or residency: Must be a U.S. citizen or meet certain residency requirements.
- Application: Must apply for SSI benefits.
- Disability: Must have a medical condition that meets the Social Security Administration’s definition of a disability.
- Work history: Must have limited or no work history.
- Financial assets: Must not have excessive financial assets.
- Living arrangements: Must live in the United States or the Northern Mariana Islands.
Additional requirements for SSI:
- Continuing disability review: SSI recipients may undergo periodic reviews to determine if they still meet the disability requirements.
- Reporting changes: Must report any changes in income, resources, living arrangements, or medical condition to the Social Security Administration.
- Appeals process: If the SSI application is denied, there is an appeals process available.
If you would like to learn more about how Dr. Bill LaTour can assist you with your case, we encourage you to set up a free initial meeting. Take the first step by contacting Dr. Bill LaTour at (909) 316-5861 to explore how he can help you navigate the complexities of Supplemental Security Income Insurance.
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Valerie C. G.Differences Between Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
Supplemental security income (SSI) and social security disability insurance (SSDI) are two different programs that provide financial assistance to individuals with disabilities. While both programs aim to support those who are unable to work due to their impairment, they have key differences between them.
SSI
SSI is a needs-based program that provides monthly cash assistance to individuals with limited income and resources. The amount of SSI benefits can vary based on factors such as income, living arrangements, and other financial resources. As of 2021, the maximum federal SSI benefit amount is $794 per month for an individual and $1,191 per month for a couple.*
Medicaid Coverage
In terms of Medicaid coverage, SSI recipients are generally eligible for Medicaid benefits automatically in most states. Medicaid provides health coverage to individuals with limited income and resources.
SSDI
SSDI is an insurance program that provides benefits to individuals who have worked and paid into the Social Security system but are no longer able to work due to a disability. The amount of SSDI benefits one can receive is based on the individual’s earnings record and work credits. The more work credits a person has accumulated, the higher their potential SSDI benefit amount. As the SSA’s foundational unit of work history, credits serve to determine if you are eligible for different categories of benefits. Regardless of when the work was performed, credits accrue from your annual income. You might earn them all during a summer seasonal position or it could take a whole year to accumulate the annual maximum of four credits.
Waiting Period & Medicare
The time frame to receive these types of benefits varies. For SSI, benefits can be received as soon as the individual is determined eligible.
Eligibility for Supplemental Security Income has several components. Candidates must suffer from medical issues that match the disability definitions set by the SSA. Possible SSI prospects must meet the designated residency requirements, including living in the Northern Mariana Islands, the U.S., or holding citizenship. On the other hand, SSDI benefits are typically not payable until the individual has been disabled for at least five months. They may be eligible for Medicare after a 24-month waiting period from the date they become entitled to SSDI benefits. Eligibility for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) requires a health condition that aligns with the particular disability criteria established by the SSA. The applicant also must have an employment history in Social Security protected roles.
*The information provided here is based on current data and may be subject to change. It is recommended to consult a San Bernardino supplemental security income lawyer or contact the Social Security Administration for the most up-to-date and accurate information.
Are Children Eligible to Receive SSI?
Children are eligible to receive SSI benefits based on the following conditions:
- Intellectual disabilities or cognitive impairments
- Developmental delays or disorders
- Autism spectrum disorders
- Physical disabilities or impairments
- Chronic health conditions affecting daily functioning
- Behavioral or emotional disorders requiring significant support
These challenges can significantly impact a child’s ability to function independently and may qualify you and your family for SSI benefits.
Limitations To Take-Home Pay In Addition to SSI
When an individual earns take-home pay while receiving SSI, certain limitations exist. It is important to understand how these factors can impact the amount of SSI benefits received.
- Dollar Amounts: The Social Security Administration sets a monthly income limit for individuals receiving SSI benefits. As of 2023, the income limit is $1,470 per month. Any earnings above this threshold may result in a reduction in SSI benefits.
- Exclusions: Certain types of income may be excluded from the total calculation for SSI purposes. As an example, during a period of three months income infrequently or irregularly earned on the initial $30 is not included in the tally according to the Income Exclusions for SSI Program.
These exclusions help mitigate the impact of take-home pay on SSI benefits.
Understanding and complying with these restrictions is essential to ensure SSI beneficiaries adhere to the program’s guidelines.
Steps To Apply for SSI
The steps to apply for Supplemental Security Income include the following:
1. Gather the necessary documents and information required for the SSI application.
2. Complete the form to enroll.
3. Submit the completed application along with the required documents to the Social Security Administration (SSA).
Appealing a Rejected SSI Claim
If your SSI claim gets denied, you have the option to appeal the decision. Working with an experienced Supplemental Security Income lawyer can be immensely helpful in this process. They can guide you through the official proceedings and ensure that your case is presented effectively.
The four steps in appealing a rejected SSI claim include:
1. Review and Gather Additional Evidence
- Your lawyer will thoroughly review your case and will gather any additional evidence.
- Any documentation available will strengthen your claim.
- The claimant will submit a request for reconsideration.
2. Reconsideration
- The case will be reviewed again by a different examiner.
- If the reconsideration is denied, proceed to the next step.
3. Hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)
- Request a hearing before an ALJ.
- Your SSI lawyer will present and argue your case.
- The ALJ will review the evidence and make a decision.
4. Appeals Council
- Should your appeal be rejected by the ALJ, you have the option to seek further review by submitting a request to the Appeals Council.
- The Appeals Council consists of judges who review ALJ decisions.
- If the Appeals Council denies your claim, you have the option to file a lawsuit in federal court.
Consult with your SSI lawyer to determine the best course of action. They will assess the strength of your case and advise you on whether to continue the appeals process or to consider other options. Remember, persistence and working with a knowledgeable attorney can greatly increase your chances of a successful appeal.
Advantages of Working with a Supplemental Security Income Lawyer in San Bernardino
At our firm, we understand the real struggles individuals face during this process. Dr. Bill LaTour brings a wealth of experience to the table. He is an experienced California disability lawyer with a proven track record of handling thousands of Social Security Disability and Supplemental Security Income claims. With Dr. Bill LaTour by your side, you can rest assured that you are in capable hands.
Working with a Supplemental Security Income Lawyer in San Bernardino has several advantages. They can assist you in navigating the SSI form process, compiling and organizing evidence, and submitting your petition. Obtaining legal representation further enhances your cases’ potential success rate. In your hearing, a lawyer will advocate on your behalf.
How to Pay for an SSI Lawyer
The legal team at The Law Offices of Dr. Bill LaTour operates on a contingency fee basis. This means that you don’t have to pay any upfront costs. Instead, we only get paid when we win your case, and our fees are taken directly from your settlement amount. This approach makes it feasible for anyone who needs legal representation in SSI matters to access professional services without the worry of high legal costs. Finding a supplemental security income lawyer doesn’t have to be a strenuous task, especially with Dr. Bill LaTour. We pride ourselves on our accessibility, as our team is just a phone call away.
Call Dr. Bill LaTour Today for a Free Case Review
Supplemental Security Income Attorney Dr. Bill LaTour is ready to assist you with your case. With his extensive knowledge and resolution to assist you, he can guide you through the complexities of SSI claims and ensure your rights are protected. Don’t let the process overwhelm you. Contact Dr. Bill LaTour’s office today at (909) 316-5861 for a free case review.
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