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Helping San Jose Residents Get Their SSI Benefits

If your SSI claim has been denied or you’re just getting started, Dr. Bill LaTour's Disability Advocates of America has decades of experience helping Californians successfully secure benefits. Take the first step toward financial stability with help from our San Jose Supplemental Security Income lawyer. Schedule your free consultation today.

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Your Supplemental Security Income Lawyer in San Jose, CA

If you live in San Jose and struggle to make ends meet due to a disability and limited income, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) may be the support you need. But applying for SSI or appealing a denial can be complicated. Working with a knowledgeable Supplemental Security Income lawyer in San Jose can help you avoid costly mistakes, strengthen your case, and improve your chances of approval.

At Dr. Bill LaTour’s Disability Advocates of America, we know how much SSI benefits can mean for your financial security and independence. Led by Dr. Bill LaTour, a respected psychologist and attorney with over 30 years of experience, our team provides compassionate, results-driven support for people across California. We walk with you through every step, from filing your application to representing you in hearings and appeals. Our mission is simple: to ease your burden, protect your rights, and help you receive the benefits you need.

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We Make It Easy

We strive to make this difficult process as easy as possible. You don’t even have to leave your house. We’ll meet with you over the phone!

You Deserve Benefits

If you’re living with a severe disability that prevents you from working and doing everyday activities, you may be entitled to SSI benefits. Let our team help you get the financial support you may qualify for.

We Work for You

When you call our office, you’ll get a partner in seeking SSI benefits. The best part is that our advocates work on a contingency-fee basis, so there are no upfront fees and you won’t owe us anything unless we win your case!

Table of Contents

Supplemental Security Income Definition & Eligibility Criteria

Supplemental Security Income is a federal program run by the Social Security Administration (SSA) that provides monthly payments to people who have limited income and resources and who are:

  • Disabled according to SSA’s definition
  • Blind, regardless of age, or
  • Age 65 or older

Unlike Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), SSI does not depend on your work history and is based strictly on financial need. To qualify for SSI, you must:

California also supplements SSI benefits with an additional State Supplementary Payment (SSP), which increases monthly payments for eligible residents.

How to Apply for SSI Benefits in San Jose

Applying for SSI can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the Social Security process. Taking the time to prepare properly and working with a dedicated SSI attorney can help prevent delays and improve your chances of approval.

  1. Gather Your Documents: Before applying, collect all the documents you’ll need. This includes medical records, statements from doctors, proof of income and resources, and living arrangement information.
  2. Submit Your Application: You can begin the process by completing the online application on the SSA website, calling 1-800-772-1213 to apply by phone, or visiting your local Social Security office to apply in person.
  3. Attend an Interview or Provide Additional Information: The SSA may schedule an interview to review your situation or ask for additional documents. During this step, they may also contact your doctors or review your medical evidence.
  4. Wait for a Decision: After you apply, the SSA reviews your claim to determine if you meet both the financial and medical requirements for SSI. This process can take several months and many initial claims are denied.

If you’re applying for SSI in San Jose, a lawyer can help organize your application, gather the right medical proof, and communicate with the SSA on your behalf to help you avoid common errors that lead to denials.

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How to Appeal a Denied SSI Claim

If your SSI claim is denied, the good news is that many people are later approved through the appeal process. Understanding each stage and how to strengthen your case can greatly improve your chances of success.

  1. Reconsideration: At this stage, your entire claim is reviewed by someone who was not involved in the first decision. You can submit new medical evidence, recent treatment notes, or additional documentation that supports your disability claim.
  2. Hearing Before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ): If your claim is denied again, you can request a hearing with an Administrative Law Judge. You’ll have the chance to explain your limitations in person, provide testimony, and have your doctor or other witnesses speak on your behalf. An attorney can prepare you for the questions the judge may ask and help present your case clearly and confidently.
  3. Appeals Council Review: If the judge denies your claim, you may request a review by the Social Security Appeals Council. This body examines whether the ALJ made a legal or procedural error. They can uphold the decision, reverse it, or send it back for another hearing.
  4. Federal Court: As a final option, you can file a lawsuit in federal district court. Most people at this stage work closely with a qualified SSI attorney who understands both federal and California disability law.

How Long Does an SSI Appeal Take With a Lawyer?

The time it takes to resolve an SSI appeal depends on the complexity of your case, the level of appeal, and the local workload of the San Jose Office of Hearings Operations.

  • A reconsideration may take several months.
  • A hearing before an ALJ can take a year or more, depending on scheduling.
  • Appeals Council and federal reviews can take additional time.

A knowledgeable lawyer can help prevent delays, make sure all deadlines are met, and ensure your evidence is presented in the strongest possible way. They’ll also handle communication with the SSA so you don’t miss important notices or hearings. If your claim was denied, reach out to a dedicated SSI attorney in San Jose who can guide you through the appeal process.

The Benefits of Working With a San Jose SSI Attorney

Trying to handle an SSI claim on your own can be confusing and overwhelming. One missed deadline or incomplete document can set your case back or even lead to a denial. That’s why working with an experienced Supplemental Security Income lawyer in San Jose can make all the difference.

A knowledgeable SSI attorney can:

  • Evaluate your eligibility before applying to determine whether you meet the medical and financial requirements under the Social Security Act
  • Gather and organize strong medical evidence, including physician statements and treatment records that clearly demonstrate your disability
  • Handle all communication with the SSA so you don’t have to deal with the stress and paperwork
  • Represent you in hearings and appeals, helping ensure your voice is heard and your rights are protected
  • Keep your case on track, meeting all filing deadlines and following up with the SSA as needed

Beyond the paperwork, your SSI lawyer is also your advocate who listens, understands your challenges, and stands up for you during a difficult time. At Dr. Bill LaTour’s Disability Advocates of America, we take pride in helping individuals and families throughout San Jose obtain the stability that SSI benefits can provide.

Why Choose Dr. Bill LaTour’s Disability Advocates of America?

When it comes to securing your SSI benefits, experience matters. Disability Advocates of America, led by Dr. Bill LaTour, brings decades of combined experience helping people throughout California successfully apply for and win SSI claims.

Dr. Bill LaTour has dedicated his career to helping individuals with disabilities obtain the benefits they need. As both a licensed psychologist and attorney, Dr. LaTour offers a unique understanding of how medical conditions and legal requirements intersect.

When you choose Dr. Bill LaTour’s Disability Advocates of America, you’re choosing a team that offers:

  • Extensive experience handling SSI cases
  • Thousands of successful claims for Californians in San Jose and beyond
  • Personalized guidance from advocates who take the time to understand your story and tailor their approach to your unique needs
  • Comprehensive support from the initial filing to representing you in appeals if necessary
  • Free case reviews and no upfront fees

At Dr. Bill LaTour’s Disability Advocates of America, our team understands how vital SSI benefits are for your financial stability, healthcare access, and overall well-being. Take the first step today.

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San Jose SSI FAQs

The time it takes to receive SSI benefits can vary. In most cases, it may take several months for the SSA to review your application. If your case requires an appeal, the process can take longer. Working with an SSI lawyer can help prevent delays and keep your claim on track.

SSI payments depend on your income, living situation, and other financial resources. The federal government sets a standard benefit amount, and California adds a state supplement for eligible residents. Your total payment will vary based on your unique circumstances, but an attorney can help you understand how much you may qualify for.

Yes, you can work while receiving SSI benefits, but there are strict income limits. The SSA reduces your SSI payments as your earnings increase, and exceeding the income limit could affect your eligibility. A Supplemental Security Income lawyer can explain how part-time or limited work may impact your benefits so you can make an informed decision.

Yes. While you can file an SSI claim on your own, having an SSI attorney helps ensure your paperwork is complete and your evidence is compelling. This often increases your chance of approval and can save time if your claim is denied.

Talk to a San Jose Supplemental Security Income Lawyer Today

If you’re living with a disability and struggling to make ends meet, you don’t have to face the Social Security system alone. At Dr. Bill LaTour’s Disability Advocates of America, we understand how life-changing SSI benefits can be by providing the stability, medical care, and peace of mind you deserve.

Led by Dr. Bill LaTour, our trusted team has helped countless people throughout California secure SSI benefits after denials, delays, and discouraging setbacks. We take the time to truly listen, explain your options clearly, and build a case that reflects your unique story and needs.

Contact us today for your free consultation with a qualified Supplemental Security Income lawyer in San Jose. Let us help you move forward with confidence.

General Information

The Disability Application Process

Eligibility Requirements

Does Your Condition Qualify?

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