What Are the Odds of Getting Approved for SSI?
When it comes to government benefits, none is quite as universal as those provided by the Social Security Administration. This branch helps citizens of all ages supplement their income when they are incapable of working; either due to injury, disability, or old age. It’s important to note, however, that these benefits are broken down into two separate categories. There is SSI, or Supplemental Security Income, and SSDI or Social Security Disability Insurance. Both are covered by the Administration, but they are handled by different departments and are only eligible in certain cases. Below we’ll talk about SSI and what you can do to help your case get approved.
The biggest advantage of Supplemental Security Income is that it can be awarded at any time, to anyone, at any age. Unlike SSDI, which requires that the recipient has paid into Social Security for a certain amount of time, SSI is a “needs-based” program, meaning that it is awarded to anyone with a small income. However, because income is one of the requirement to qualify for SSI, the amount of cases that are submitted is high. This, coupled with the limited resources at the SSA’s disposal, means that, nationally, the rejection rate for SSI claims stands at approximately 65%. However, that does not mean that your case will automatically be rejected. There are some steps you can take to help ensure it gets approved, even if you have to appeal.
First of all, consulting a Social Security Lawyer is one of the best ways to navigate the bureaucracy of the system. The reason for this is that the Administration requires appropriate paperwork to be filed and submitted at certain times. This includes medical assessments and documented proof of income (or lack thereof). A lawyer will know how to fill out these forms and how to present your case. SSI cases are usually overseen by a Claims Representative, or CR, who goes over your case. A lawyer can help prep you for this interview, as well as let you know the kinds of questions that will be asked.
If your application is denied, however, you do still have options. After a case is denied, the claim can be appealed and sent for reconsideration. Usually, a case is denied if insufficient evidence is presented or if it lacks certain documentation. A representative can help make sure that everything is in order before you resubmit your claim. Thus, it is imperative that you get everything you need done correctly the first time to avoid unnecessary hassle.
If you have any questions regarding the SSI application process, contact us today, and we can help you. Filing a claim can be a time-consuming and laborious task, so let us make it easier for you.
- Phone: (844) 340-1200
- FAX: (410) 752-0465
- Email: info@LondonDisability.com