Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is one of two federally funded programs designed to provide financial support to individuals who are unable to support themselves because of their age or disability. Applying to the Social Security Administration (SSA) for SSI benefits can be complicated and frustrating, and it is common for the SSA to deny an application for what seem like irrelevant or inane reasons.
A qualified Social Security disability lawyer with a proven record of helping people obtain SSI benefits could help guide you through the application process and provide legal support. If you are applying for, were denied, or have questions about Alpharetta SSI benefits, our team of knowledgeable Social Security advocates for the disabled could work with you to secure the benefits you need and deserve.
How to Qualify for SSI Benefits
To qualify for SSI benefits, an applicant must meet certain criteria. Specifically, they must be either blind or disabled by the SSA’s definitions of those terms. Furthermore, because this program helps people with limited resources, a person must demonstrate they have both limited income and limited resources.
The SSA considers “income” to include money a person earns from working, money given in kind, as well as the money they receive from other sources such as workers’ compensation, Veterans’ benefits, and unemployment. “Resources” include cash, bank accounts, stocks, property, vehicles, homes, and insurance policies.
An applicant must also be a U.S. Citizen or an alien who meets the requirements, a resident of one of the 50 states, D.C., or the Northern Mariana Islands in order to qualify for SSI benefits in Alpharetta. In addition, each applicant must allow the SSA to contact relevant financial institutions and request their financial records.
Adjustments to Benefits
Every year, the SSA examines the amount of SSI benefits each qualifying person receives based on an adjusted cost of living. The SSA calls this yearly adjustment the Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) and typically increases payments every year. The SSA sends an update each October outlining the COLA increase, which would then take effect the beginning of December every year.
It is important to note that individual SSI benefits are offset by household income. Furthermore, certain Alpharetta residents may receive a supplement from the Georgia State Department of Human Resources.
How to Apply for SSI Benefits in Alpharetta
Applying for Alpharetta SSI benefits begins with filing an application with a local Social Security field office. The Social Security Administration provides an online tool for applicants to locate their nearest Social Security office.
Once an applicant submits their application, a disability adjudicator and a state agency medical consultant would determine whether that person meets the criteria for SSI. As part of their application, an individual should include:
- A description of their disabling condition
- The location where they have received treatment for the disability
- Information about current medications
- Information about education and work experience
- A copy of a release of records form
Get Professional Help Securing SSI Benefits in Alpharetta
Applying for social security benefits can be frustrating and complex. Fortunately, you do not have to handle these complexities alone. If you believe you qualify for Alpharetta SSI benefits, consider enlisting disability claim attorney to help you determine what compensation you may be entitled to, collect and compile an application, and—if necessary—appeal a denial. Call today and schedule a consultation with one of our lawyers who help with disability claims.
