What Is Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?

April 5, 2013

For millions of Americans who struggle to make ends meet each year, the Social Security Administration’s Supplemental Security Income program is a vital source of income.

The program is designed to help those who are over the age of 65-years-old, disabled, or blind. These individuals must also have limited income and resources as well as be a United States citizen or national.

Recipients of the benefit receive a monthly stipend that can be used to purchase everyday necessities or pay bills. Receiving the benefit can often be as simple as applying.

The agency’s website explains an individual can fill out the appropriate paperwork to be considered for benefits by either going online and completing an application or by doing so at a local SSA Office. The individual must then meet with a processor from the agency to complete the application process. This individual will consider factors such as medical conditions, test results, and work activity when deciding if a claim should be approved.

Reaching a verdict on a claim is often a drawn out process, with many cases taking up to six months to reach a resolution. Roughly one-third of claims are denied initially; however an individual has a right to appeal.

The Social Security Disability Attorneys with Fleschner, Stark, Tanoos & Newlin are aware of how complex the Supplemental Security Income regulations can be. That’s why the firm urges anyone who is preparing to file a benefit claim to discuss their case with an attorney.