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The SSI Disability 101

By: Jamil Estorninos

This article contains basic helpful information regarding your Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and how disability, in particular, may let you avail of the program.

For more specific information and help, you must speak with a Social Security representative or contact your Supplemental Security Income disability attorney.

What is Supplemental Security Income?

SSI is a Federal income supplement program. It is funded by general tax revenues, paid out by the US Treasury, not by your Social Security contributions.

Who may avail of SSI benefits?

The program provides monthly financial aid for people who are:

• 65 years old or older or
• blind or disabled and
• have limited income and financial resources

Financial resources should not exceed $2,000 or $3,000 if married.

The program may be availed of by citizen or non-citizen alike, under certain conditions.

What is the disability covered under the program?

The program covers both child and adult disability.

A child (18 years old and under) is disabled if he/she “has a medically determinable physical or mental impairment, which:

• results in marked and severe functional limitations and
• can be expected to result in death or
• has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months.”

An adult (18 years old and above) is disabled if he/she “has a medically determinable physical or mental impairment, which:

• results in the inability to do any substantial gainful activity and
• can be expected to result in death or
• has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months.”

Substantial gainful activity is a work, which requires physical or mental exertion and normally results to a pay or profit.

What are the proofs required for disability?

Generally, the SSA authorities will ask you for the names, addresses and telephone numbers of doctors, hospitals and other sources you have consulted, and the dates and kinds of treatment you have received.

For children, the SSA will require the name, address and telephone numbers of the child’s school and teacher or a third party.

However, the decision will not be based solely on your statements. A team normally conducts investigation without the knowledge of the applicant. If they could not get enough information, a separate examination by a qualified medical professional will be conducted upon the applicant.

During this process, it is strongly recommended you secure the assistance of an SSI disability attorney. One may be especially helpful during appeals in case your claim was denied.

How much money can I get?

As of January of 2008, the SSI payment for an eligible individual is $637 per month and $956 per month for an eligible couple. A portion of spouse’s income may be counted in case of married individuals when only one person is eligible.

These amounts are the same nationwide. Many states however add money to the basic benefit. You should ask the SSA or your Supplemental Security Income disability attorney for the amounts in your state.

When should I apply?

You must apply soon or else you will loose your benefits. SSA only pays benefits from the time you made your application. You may apply by calling your local SSA representative or by a hassle free and convenient application thru your SSI disability attorney.

Article Source: http://articleaddict.com

If you are having troubles pursuing your Social Security claims, log on to our website and seek the assistance of our highly experienced Supplemental Security Income disability attorneys in Los Angeles.

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