Understanding SSI Benefits & Income
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security benefits
The SSI program is very similar to SSD benefits. Both SSI and SSD are a form of government assistance for those who can't work. In general, the standards used to determine a disability is the same for both SSI and SSD claims. The application and appeals processes are the same also. One key difference is that SSD is based on the taxes that a worker paid into the Social Security system while employed. Alternatively, the SSI program is funded by the U.S. government's general tax revenues, not Social Security taxes. Another difference is that SSI benefits are based on the income and resources of the individual. SSD is based on your earnings record. A third difference is with SSI, one is usually eligible for Medicaid. With SSD, one is usually eligible for Medicare. For some, the biggest difference is that SSI is payable starting with the first full month of disability as of the date of the application. SSD is not payable until five full months after the disability began, however it may be payable up to twelve months prior to the date of the application if it can be shown that your disability existed during this time.
The SSI program is designed to help people in our society who need it most:
- The blind
- The disabled
- Those with little or no income
SSI provides those in need monthly payments so they may support themselves, as well as providing Medicaid, which allows them to obtain necessary medical treatment until they are able to work again. In cases of blindness and disability, medical evidence will be necessary to prove eligibility. In certain circumstances, the SSI program offers special free or no-cost medical exams and tests. Contact our social security disability lawyers for more information.
What does SSI cover?
SSI benefits provide monthly income to qualifying individuals, so that they may meet the financial demands of basic living expenses including:
- Food
- Clothing
- Shelter
These benefits help many people get back on their feet and support their families in the future. For the blind and disabled, SSI benefits provide necessary help for them to meet their basic needs.
Contact an SSI attorney in your area
Getting the financial assistance you need and deserve may be easier than you think. Our SSI attorneys can help you file a claim for monthly benefits in any state, and we may be able to help you without your having to leave your home. We never ever charge fees unless our clients win. Upon winning, our fee agreement is limited to 25% of the past due benefits. Ethically, we cannot say that we provide free legal services, however, we do not get paid unless you win!
