Many people find applying for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits challenging. The strict rules, complex forms, and detailed rules can make the process difficult to complete. Because of this, many get legal help to improve their chances of getting their claims approved.
At Marc Whitehead & Associates, we focus on one thing: helping people win their disability claims. With a combined 120 years of experience, our Lubbock disability lawyers have handled every type of case and even “wrote the book” on disability law.
When your health and financial stability are on the line, you need a team that knows disability law inside and out. Our Supplemental Security Income (SSI) disability lawyers in Lubbock will fight for the benefits you deserve. Call us today for a free consultation.
Understanding Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program that provides monetary help to individuals with limited income and resources. Recipients must be age 65 or older, blind, or have a severe disability that prevents them from working.
SSI benefits, administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA), help recipients cover their daily needs. Unlike Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), SSI is not based on prior work history but instead focuses on financial need.
SSI Benefits and Eligibility
SSI is available to qualifying individuals who meet strict financial and medical criteria. Key aspects of SSI benefits include:
- Monthly cash payments: Provides financial assistance for basic needs like food, clothing, and shelter.
- Medicaid coverage: Offers access to healthcare through automatic Medicaid eligibility in most states.
- Access to other assistance programs: Enables eligibility for programs like SNAP (food stamps) and housing assistance.
- Work incentives: These include programs like Ticket to Work, which allow recipients to earn income without immediately losing benefits.
- Special eligibility for children: Extends benefits to disabled children if family income and assets meet program limits.
- Protection against income disruption: Serves as a safety net for those unable to work due to age, disability, or blindness.
Eligibility Requirements
SSI eligibility is determined based on:
- Age, blindness, or disability: Applicants must be 65 or older, blind, or have a severe disability that prevents them from working.
- Financial need: Income and resource limits apply. These limits change over time, so we must check with the Social Security Administration (SSA) for the most up-to-date information.
- U.S. residency: Must reside in the United States and meet citizenship or eligible non-citizen requirements.
For a free legal consultation with a ssi disability lawyer serving Lubbock, call 800-562-9830
How Our SSI Disability Lawyers in Lubbock Can Help You
Applying for SSI benefits can be a challenging task, but our disability lawyers in Lubbock will aim to make the process easier for you.
Whether you’re starting a new application or appealing a denied claim, our Lubbock Social Security Disability lawyers can guide you every step of the way.
We Will Help With Your Initial SSI Application
Getting your SSI application right the first time is important. Errors or missing information can lead to delays, denials, or the need for an appeal. We will guide you through the process and monitor your claim to make sure it is accurate and complete .
Our team will:
- Explain SSI eligibility requirements: We will review your claim to confirm that you meet the income, resource, and disability requirements for SSI benefits. We can also explain how Social Security defines disability and other rules and laws.
- Gather medical evidence: We will help you collect and organize medical records to support your claim.
- Complete your application: We will fill out and submit the necessary paperwork to avoid errors or delays.
- Communicate with the SSA: We will handle all correspondence with the Social Security Administration (SSA) for you.
We Will Lead Your Appeal for a Denied Claim
While the SSA commonly denies initial claims, a denial doesn’t have to end your SSI journey. Our team will take the lead on your appeal, addressing the reasons for denial and building a stronger case to help you get the benefits you deserve.
This means we will:
- Review SSA‘s reason for the denial: We’ll analyze why your claim was denied and explain how to fix it.
- File the appeal: We take care of the paperwork and deadlines for your appeal.
- Prepare your case: We will gather more evidence, get updated medical records, and write a strong appeal.
- Represent you in hearings: If your case goes to a hearing, we’ll argue your case in front of an administrative law judge.
Legal representation can improve your chances of getting your claim approved. Our lawyers at Marc Whitehead & Associates are committed to fighting for the benefits you deserve—and you don’t pay us unless we win your case. Call us today for a free consultation.
Lubbock SSI Disability Lawyer Near Me 800-562-9830
You Can Appeal if SSA Denies Your Lubbock SSI Claim
If SSA denies your claim, don’t give up. Many people are successful after filing an appeal. The SSA allows people with denied claims to initiate the Supplemental Security Income appeals process, which we can handle for you.
The process involves these steps:
- Reconsideration: You can ask the SSA to review your claim again. This is the first step in the appeals process.
- Hearing: If your claim doesn’t clear reconsideration, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). As we handle your Social Security Disability appeal case, we could add evidence or clarify information to address why the claim was denied.
- Appeals Council: If necessary, we can take your case to the Appeals Council. The council will look at your case to determine if the judge made legal errors or failed to consider important evidence.
- Federal court review: If the Appeals Council denies your request or you disagree with its decision, federal district court may be the next step. A federal judge will review your lawsuit to determine if the SSA made the correct decision based on the law and your evidence.
You can expect full support from our Lubbock Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Disability lawyers in Lubbock. We will meet all deadlines so your case stays on track. We also will gather more evidence or clarify information that may have been unclear.
We’ll explain what to expect and practice with you to make sure you’re ready for questions from the ALJ or others. We’ll also argue your case in court and handle all legal proceedings for you.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About SSI Disability Claims
People applying for SSI disability benefits have questions throughout the process. Our Supplemental Security Income SSI disability attorneys in Lubbock can give you tailored advice based on the questions you have about your situation.
Below are answers to some of the most common questions, which will help you understand the process and your next steps.
Are SSI and SSDI the Same Program?
No, SSI (Supplemental Security Income) and SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) are two different programs. SSI is based on financial need and doesn’t require work history, while SSDI is based on your work history and how much you’ve paid into Social Security through taxes. You must meet the SSA’s definition of disability to qualify for either program.
Can I Receive SSI and SSDI Payments at the Same Time?
The SSA may award you SSI and SSDI benefits that you would get at the same time if you qualify for both. If approved, you would receive what’s called concurrent benefits. You may qualify for both programs if your SSDI payment is low enough to meet SSI’s income limits.
SSI can help supplement your income to ensure you meet the minimum standard of living.
How does the SSA Define Disability for SSI Purposes?
The Social Security Administration defines disability as a physical or mental condition that prevents you from doing substantial work and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.
This definition applies to adults, while children must have a condition that severely limits their activities.
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Our Lubbock Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Disability Lawyers Can Help You–Call Us
Getting an SSI benefits claim approved is not always a straightforward process. While you don’t need a lawyer to apply, it helps to have a legal advocate who knows your situation and will protect your rights and best interests.
Whether you are applying for the first time or appealing a denied claim, our Lubbock Supplemental Security Income (SSI) disability lawyers can lead you through the maze and work toward recovering your benefits. Call Marc Whitehead & Associates for a free consultation.
Call or text 800-562-9830 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form