Obtaining Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits can make a substantial difference in a person’s finances. While these benefits are available to all US citizens and legal permanent residents, applicants must meet the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) eligibility requirements to collect disability compensation.
These requirements include having a medically identifiable disability and meeting an income level requirement. Working with a Social Security disability law firm can help improve your understanding of Milton SSI eligibility requirements.
Demonstrating the Extent of a Disability
The first and most critical step in pursuing an SSI claim is proving that an applicant is disabled. The SSA defines characterizes a disability as an inability to engage in any substantially gainful activity due to a physical or mental impairment which has lasted or is expected to last for a period of at least 12 months. In other words, a person who cannot work because of their medical conditions may be eligible for Milton SSI benefits.
Demonstrating the extent of an applicant’s medical conditions is essential to a claim. Medical records from a doctor or therapist that indicate a diagnosis as well as how a condition affects a person’s ability to work can be used as evidence of their eligibility. Whether an applicant is disabled according to the SSA’s standards has a substantial impact on their SSI eligibility in Milton.
The Asset Requirement
SSI is a needs-based program. While every U.S. citizen and legal permanent resident may qualify for payments, it is only those who have all but exhausted their economic resources who can collect these benefits.
According to the SSA, an individual can have no more than $2,000 worth of non-exempt assets. This limit expands to $3,000 if the person is married. Non-exempt assets include:
- The house in which the claimant lives;
- One vehicle for personal transportation;
- Small-benefit life insurance policies; and
- Household goods and personal effects such as clothing.
The SSA will conduct an investigation to ensure that an applicant does not violate these asset limits. If the agency does deny a claim for this reason, it is possible that the claimant will need to wait until the exhaustion of their assets to pursue a claim.
Let an Attorney Help You Prove Milton SSI Eligibility
The Supplemental Security Income program administered by the SSA is a needs-based program that provides essential benefits to people whose disabilities have left them unable to work. However, demonstrating that you qualify for disability compensation can be difficult, especially without qualified legal counsel.
One of our steadfast legal allies can help prove that you suffer from a long-lasting, debilitating condition which prevents you from performing any full-time job. Additionally, you must establish that you have less than $2,000 in assets at the time of submission – or $3,000 if you are married.
Overall, establishing Milton SSI eligibility can be more difficult than many people anticipate. An experienced lawyer from our firm can provide more information about the eligibility requirements associated with obtaining SSI benefits, so call us today to get started.
