Supplemental Security Income for Hampton, VA

Social Security disability benefits are available in two types: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Individuals who have worked for ten or more years and paid into payroll taxes are eligible for the first type, SSDI. These are non-government funded benefits that you yourself have paid into.

SSI benefits, on the other hand, are government funded. They are meant to help the elderly, blind, and disabled supplement their income, which is often small or non-existent. SSI benefits are strictly available to help individuals meet their basic living needs.

Who Can Receive SSI Benefits?

To be eligible for Social Security Income benefits, applicants must:

• Be at least 65 years old or older
• Be partially or totally blind
• Have a medical condition that prevents them from working and will last for at least one year or is expected to be terminal.

Factors in SSI Eligibility and Benefit Amounts

In addition to the basic eligibility criteria, there are also several factors that will determine if an applicant qualifies for benefits and how much they will receive.

• Your Income – For purposes of SSI benefits, income includes money earned as well as many other benefits and payments you may receive, like Social Security or pension payments.
• Where You Live – The basic SSI payment is the same nationwide. However, some states have opted to supplement SSI payments. In Virginia, a supplemental payment called an auxiliary grant is available for adults in assisted living facilities. Income limits for receiving SSI benefits also vary by state.
• Your Assets – The value of certain assets can be considered when determining SSI benefits, but not all. For example, a home you own and live in is usually not counted, but if you own a vacation home, its value will likely be included in the consideration of your benefits.

Steps to Help Make Sure Your Claim Gets Approved Quickly

For the quickest determination of SSI benefits, you should be sure to file any appeals as quickly as possible. Respond to any requests from the social security examiner as quickly and as accurately as possible and include recent and thorough medical evidence with your application.

Work with a Skilled Social Security Attorney

Because of how often individuals are denied Social Security benefits, it is often best to work with a Social Security attorney from the very beginning of the claims process. Statistics show that individuals who retain the help of an attorney early on in the process are more likely to get approved than those who attempt to navigate the process on their own. Additionally, individuals who have been denied their benefits are more successful in their appeals.

From lack of medical evidence to incorrect information, there are a number of reasons that Supplemental Security Income claims are routinely denied. To prevent denial of your claim, allow a Social Security attorney who knows the system to help you. At Hampton Injury Law, our team will work toward obtaining your benefits as quickly and painlessly as possible. Contact our office today to learn more about how we can assist you.