If you have a disability or medical condition that affects your ability to work, you may be able to receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI). These benefits can help you cover the costs of your daily needs. Our Texas City disability lawyers can help you apply for SSI.
At Marc Whitehead & Associates, disability law isn’t just a part of what we do—it’s our sole focus. Our dedicated team collectively has over 120 years of experience, so we are always ready to help clients apply for help or lead the appeals process for a denied SSI claim.
Whether you’re filing your initial application or need help challenging a denial, our Texas City Supplemental Security Income (SSI) disability lawyers will fight for the benefits you deserve. We are proud of the trust we’ve earned and are ready to use our experience to help you get help.
Overview of SSI Benefits and Eligibility
SSI offers monthly cash payments to people who meet strict income, resource, and disability criteria. The federal assistance program is particularly helpful for individuals who have little or no work history or do not qualify for other Social Security benefits.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) is responsible for administering the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program.
Basic Eligibility Criteria
Individuals apply for SSI benefits must meet the following criteria:
- Age: 65 or older, or
- Blindness: Central visual acuity of 20/200 or less in the better eye, or
- Disability: Medically determinable physical or mental impairment lasting at least 12 months or expected to result in death, and
- Income: Limited earned and unearned income, and
- Resources: Countable assets under $2,000 for individuals or $3,000 for couples
How Is SSI Different from Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)?
People often confuse Supplemental Security Income and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), but these benefits programs serve different purposes and have distinct eligibility requirements.
SSDI is a federal program that provides monthly benefits to people with a disability who have worked and paid Social Security taxes.
Here are the key differences between the programs:
- Funding: SSI is funded by general tax revenues, while SSDI is funded through payroll taxes.
- Work history: SSI does not require a work history, whereas SSDI requires sufficient work credits.
- Eligibility: SSI focuses on income and resource limits, while SSDI is based on a medical disability and work history.
- Benefits amount: SSI payments are generally lower than SSDI benefits. In some cases, states may add extra money to the payments.
After our Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Disability lawyers in Texas City learn more about your situation, we can advise if you or your loved one can receive SSI and SSDI benefits at the same time.
For a free legal consultation with a ssi disability lawyer serving Texas City, call 800-562-9830
How Our Texas City Lawyers for SSI Disability Claims Can Help You
We understand the challenges of applying for Social Security Disability benefits, especially when you need your time to manage your health. You don’t have to take on the task of applying by yourself. Our SSI Disability lawyers serving Texas City can help you with the process.
We will:
- Check your eligibility to see if you can apply for SSI benefits
- Explain the disability requirements for SSI in easy-to-understand terms
- Assist in preparing and submitting your application
- Help gather and organize medical evidence
- Represent you during the Supplemental Security Income appeals process if SSA denies your claim
- Advocate for you at hearings before an Administrative Law Judge.
- Answer your questions and concerns and keep you updated on your case.
The attorneys at Marc Whitehead & Associates are up to date on all recent changes to Disability programs, which means you will receive the guidance you need for your claim.
Texas City SSI Disability Lawyer Near Me 800-562-9830
How Much does It Cost to Work With a Lawyer on Your SSI Claim?
In Texas City, our SSI lawyers operate on a contingency basis, meaning you won’t need to pay anything upfront for us to handle your case. This allows us to begin working for you immediately, removing the stress of worrying about legal costs while we focus on building your disability claim.
We collect a fee only if we secure your benefits. Call us today for a free consultation. When we talk with you, we will explain this process in detail. Reach out to us today.
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What Happens if the SSA Denies Your SSI Claim?
There’s always the possibility that the Social Security Administration (SSA) will deny your claim the first time. This is common, so we encourage you to take the next step.
Our lawyers can handle any stage of the appeals process, which is as follows:
Reconsideration
If your initial application for SSI or SSDI benefits is denied, the first step in the appeals process is to request a reconsideration. This stage involves a complete review of your claim by someone who did not have a role in the initial decision.
During this stage, you can submit new evidence to strengthen your case. It’s essential to act quickly, as you typically have only 60 days to request reconsideration after receiving your denial notice.
Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) Hearing
If SSA denies your claim in the reconsideration stage, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). The ALJ will review your case and hear testimony from you, medical experts, or vocational specialists.
This is often the best time to present a strong case, as the ALJ examines all evidence in greater detail. We will make sure you are prepared for the hearing and represent you.
Appeals Council Review
If the ALJ does not approve your claim, you can request the Appeals Council to review it. The council reviews the ALJ’s decision to determine if there were any errors in the application of the law or if new evidence warrants a reevaluation.
While the Appeals Council has the discretion to deny your request, it may also send your case back to the ALJ for further review or issue a new decision on its own.
Federal District Court Review
If the Appeals Council denies your request or upholds the ALJ’s decision, the last step in the appeals process is filing a lawsuit in federal district court. At this stage, your case moves out of the SSA’s review process and into the judicial system.
A federal judge will evaluate whether the SSA made legal errors in denying your benefits. This step involves complex legal requirements and procedures, which our Texas City SSI disability claim lawyers can handle for you.
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Common Reasons SSI Claims Get Denied
Many SSI claims are denied due to avoidable mistakes or issues with the application. Common reasons include:
- Incomplete or incorrect applications: Missing information or errors on your application can lead to a denial.
- Insufficient medical evidence: Without detailed medical records proving your disability, your claim may not be approved.
- Earning too much income: SSI has strict income limits, and earning above the allowed amount can disqualify you.
- Failure to follow treatment: If you do not follow your doctor’s recommended treatment plan, your claim may be denied.
- Missing deadlines: Failing to respond to requests for information or appeal decisions on time can lead to a denied claim.
Understanding these reasons can help you avoid mistakes and improve your chances of approval. An experienced SSI lawyer can help ensure your application is accurate and complete.
Our Texas City Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Disability Lawyers Are Ready to Help You
Marc Whitehead & Associates is committed to helping you receive the benefits that help you meet your expenses. Our dedicated Texas City Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Disability lawyers can answer your questions and manage your claim or appeal while you take care of your health.
Whether you’re filing your first application or challenging a denial, we can guide you through the process and will work to obtain a favorable outcome.
Call us today for a free, no–obligation consultation. The sooner we hear from you, the sooner we can start working on your case.
Call or text 800-562-9830 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form