Determining SSI Benefits in Alpharetta

Supplemental Security Insurance (SSI) Benefits are meant to provide financial stability to disabled adults and children who lack the resources to maintain financial security alone. However, the process of determining SSI benefits in Alpharetta is complex, with many opportunities to make mistakes that could jeopardize a claim.

Because of this, it is important to work with an attorney from an experienced social security disability law firm who can help guide you through the process of obtaining SSI Benefits. A dedicated SSDI attorney can help you each step of the way to make sure you are making the decisions that will give your claim the greatest chance of success.

What Happens After Someone Files Their SSI Application?

When the person has filed their initial application, it goes to the disability adjudication services, which is a state agency that helps social security process disability claims. The application is assigned to an adjudicator who reviews all of the information that was taken at the local office and can also request additional information. Then, the adjudicator reviews the information to make their decision about determining SSI benefits in Alpharetta.

The case then goes into review with a mental health specialist and a general doctor who works at the state agency. They review the medical records and create a residual functional capacity, which determines the person’s future limitations, based on the evidence. The case then goes back to the adjudicator who decides whether to approve it.

To help expedite the application process, applicants should make sure that they return every phone call that comes from either the local office or their adjudicator. They should also return any forms within the time specified. Any delays in paperwork or communication will delay the case, it is important for the applicant to make sure the information they give is accurate and that they give their doctors notice that the SSA will be contacting them.

Reviewing Benefits

When SSI benefits are granted, the person will be contacted by the local social security office that is responsible for processing their claim. Generally, they will either send the applicant a letter or give them a phone call.

They will file a final review of the situation to make sure that the person still qualifies for the program. During this review, they can ask the person similar financial questions to the ones they asked at the beginning of the claim. The office does this to make sure that the person is still technically qualified and there are no resources that have changed so they can have as accurate a rate as possible. Once they complete this final review, they will pay the claim.

What If They Were Not Granted Enough Benefits?

If a person believes that they did not receive the correct amount of benefits, they can go to the social security office and ask for a review or appeal of their case. However, there is a maximum payment for SSI according to federal law. Unfortunately, this means that the SSA may not pay what the claimant believes is appropriate.

Denials of Claims in Alpharetta

There are several reasons why a claim may be denied. The initial SSI application can be denied medically, which means a person technically qualifies for the program but the SSA believes that their impairments are not meeting the severity requirements for the disability. The claim may also be denied based on a technical issue with the application.

Social security will always tell people there is an option for an appeal if they are denied their initial application. The applicant usually has 60 days to file their appeal. If a claim is denied, the person should consider an appeal but should also consult with an attorney to determine whether their appeal will be deemed valid or invalid.

Speak with an Attorney About Determining SSI Benefits in Alpharetta

Whether you were denied benefits or are submitting an initial application, it is important to consult a professional about the SSI benefits process. This is because the process of determining SSI benefits in Alpharetta is complex and you want to make sure you are giving your claim the best chance of success. To get started on your claim, call today for a consultation.