Obtaining Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits can make a substantial difference in maintaining some level of independence after an illness or injury leaves you unable to work. Because of the vital nature of these benefits, it may be important to gain a full understanding of how to obtain them.
SSI benefits are available to those who successfully file an application, but the SSI application process in Marietta can be an intimidating and stressful procedure, as it requires detailed information about different aspects of an applicant’s life. An experienced Social Security claims advocate could help you through every step of the SSI application process they are on, whether that is the initial application, an appeal of a denial, or a judge’s hearing.
SSI is a benefits program that only distributes payments to people in need based on two main factors, the first of which is an applicant’s medical situation. To meet this standard, an applicant must provide the names, addresses, and of all doctors who have provided care for their conditions, as well as all related treatment dates. They must also be prepared to state how their medical conditions affect their abilities to perform physical tasks, maintain concentration, or interact with other people.
The second qualifying factor in the SSI application process considers a Marietta applicant’s monetary resources. SSI is a needs-based program, so only people who are in dire financial situations can qualify for the program. Single applicants can have no more than $2,000 worth of non-exempt assets, and married couples are limited to $3,000 worth of sellable assets.
Obtaining SSI benefits is usually a multi-step process that begins with the submission of an application. However, most of these initial applications are rejected by the Social Security Administration (SSA). Unfortunately, many applicants have medical conditions that are not included in the SSA’s list of impairments and must argue that their conditions are nevertheless severe enough to prevent them from working.
Applicants who receive denials have 60 days to request a formal appeal, the paperwork for which is similar to that of an initial application. However, this appeal should include updated information about an applicant’s medical treatment.
Unfortunately, such efforts often lead to a second denial from Social Security. Requesting a second appeal would trigger a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge who would examine the application with a fresh perspective and make an independent decision concerning whether an applicant in Marietta should receive SSI benefits. This hearing is often an applicant’s best chance to receive benefits.
Obtaining SSI benefits can be a lengthy and frustrating process that leaves you waiting months or even years to receive benefits. A lack of income during such a long period of time can place great strain on your life, so it could be essential to give yourself the best chance for an early approval by working with a knowledgeable legal advocate during the SSI application process in Marietta.
An experienced Social Security disability law firm could help you gather evidence the SSA to check on the status of your claim or file any necessary appeals. Call today to get started on your case.
With offices in Alpharetta, Atlanta and Marietta, we provide legal assistance to people throughout Georgia and the Southeast in all matters of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
We are ready to help you, and offer multiple ways to reach us.