Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program that provides disabled individuals with benefits intended to help them meet their daily living needs. Unlike Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income is based strictly on disability, not lifetime contributions to a Social Security insurance program. In other words, individuals in Marietta struggling with permanent disabilities may be eligible to receive SSI benefits whether or not they have ever held a job or earned an income. If you suffer from a physical or mental disability that has kept you from ever securing employment or working enough to qualify for SSDI benefits, contact our SSI attorneys at Rechtman & Spevak, as you may be eligible for assistance known as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits.

GA Supplemental Security Income Described

Supplemental Security Income is a federal income supplement designed to assist individuals suffering from long-term disabilities who are unable to work due to a qualifying physical or mental condition. SSI benefits are paid monthly and are based on each individual’s needs, helping to cover basic needs like shelter, clothing and food. In short, SSI is a U.S. government program that provides stipends to low-income individuals who are either 65 or older, blind, or disabled. Although SSI is administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA), the program is funded by the U.S. Treasury general funds, not the Social Security trust fund. If you receive SSI benefits, you may also be eligible for Medicaid to pay your medical bills.

Qualifying for SSI Benefits in Atlanta and Marietta

Applying for SSI benefits is complicated, and understanding Supplemental Security Income requirements can be difficult for individuals without a legal background. Eligibility for SSI benefits in Georgia includes the following requirements:

  • A certain level of physical or mental disability
  • Interviews with the Social Security Administration
  • Evaluation of potential future employment
  • Disclosure of your income and expenses

When it comes to providing documentation of your disability, income and expenses, as well as evidence of your inability to work, enlisting a knowledgeable SSI attorney in Georgia to prepare and present your case can significantly improve your chances of a favorable outcome. In some cases, our Marietta attorneys may be able to help you combine your benefits to collect SSI, long-term disability benefits and workers’ compensation, if applicable.

How Much Are SSI Benefits Worth?

Not only do permanent disabilities restrict an individual physically and/or mentally, but they can also result in crippling financial difficulties, especially if the individual is unable to work and earn an income. This financial situation is often compounded by costly medical bills resulting from necessary treatment and long-term medical care. Fortunately, with the help of SSI benefits, disabled individuals can receive the financial assistance they need to pay for their daily needs. The monthly payment amount for the SSI program is based on the “federal benefit rate,” or FBR. As of the beginning of this year, the FBR is $794 per month for individuals and $1,191 for an eligible individual with an eligible spouse, and $397 for an essential person. These numbers change periodically when there is a Social Security cost-of-living adjustment.

Contact Our SSI Benefits Lawyers in GA Today

One of the most devastating aspects of filing a claim for SSI benefits in Georgia is having your claim denied, which is, unfortunately, not uncommon. In some cases, the slightest mistake on an SSI benefits application or medical records can delay the process for months. With the help of a qualified SSI benefits attorney in Atlanta however, you can immediately begin the appeals process for a denied claim in order to pursue the financial assistance you deserve. If you are unable to work in Georgia because of a permanent physical or mental disability, contact our experienced Social Security Disability lawyers at Rechtman & Spevak today to discuss your legal options. You may be eligible for Supplemental Security Income benefits, which you can pursue by enlisting the help of a skilled SSI benefits attorney in Georgia. Our law firm is located in Atlanta, and our Supplemental Security Income lawyers have years of experience helping permanently disabled individuals seek the income supplements they are entitled to.

Jaret A. Spevak
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Atlanta Personal Injury & Workers’ Compensation Attorney With 20+ Years Experience