Ohio SSI Benefits: What You Need to Know
August 29, 2018Lowe Scott Fisher Co., LPA’s Social Security disability lawyers help countless Ohioans each year get the assistance they need from the Social Security Administration. One lesser known program for getting assistance to those in need is SSI benefits.
SSI, or Supplemental Security Income, is a program operated by the Social Security Administration that may be available to disabled individuals who do not qualify under ordinary SSDI, or Social Security Disability Insurance. Like SSDI, SSI benefits come with restrictions, eligibility requirements, and evidentiary requirements for applicants.
Because SSI benefits are lesser known, many eligible individuals may be missing out on the SSI financial assistance they need. Contacting an experienced disability lawyer at Lowe Scott Fisher Co., LPA can ensure that you receive all the information you need to pursue disability assistance from the right program. Call today: SSI benefits may be right for you.
What are SSI Benefits?
SSI benefits are paid to certain individuals who are:
- disabled, blind, or aged 65 or older; and
- Have both low income AND low resources
The definition of low income and resources changes, and will typically be a different amount each year. Applicants must demonstrate their financial qualification during the application process.
Similarly, applicants must prove their disability, blindness, or age. While proving age or blindness can be relatively simple, proving other disabilities can be more difficult and require thorough record analysis and documentation.
A trusted lawyer can present your application, including both proof of finances and proof of disability, in the best possible light to expedite your claim.
Why SSI Benefits Instead of SSDI?
Unlike SSDI, SSI does not have work requirements as a prerequisite to eligibility. Under the SSDI system, individuals are eligible for Social Security disability only if they have enough work credits, and those credits are recent enough to allow payment of benefits. SSI, though, is different.
SSI benefits are available to anyone who qualifies. They are not limited to those who have “paid in” to the Social Security system.
How a Lawyer Can Help
As stated above, many individuals eligible for SSI are not even aware that the program exists. They have standard SSDI claims denied for lack of work credits, and believe their avenue to benefits ends there.
Consulting with a lawyer at the beginning of the benefits application process—whether SSDI or SSI—can help applicants discover all programs and sources of benefits that may be available. Beyond that, an experienced attorney can minimize your difficulties and maximize your likelihood of submitting a successful application at the outset. This can mean less stress and more immediate financial assistance for you and your family.
Ohio Supplemental Security Income Lawyers are Available Now
If you or your loved one are thinking about applying for Social Security disability, we are here to help. Call or email today for a free consultation and find out how the Lowe Scott Fisher team can help you get the benefits you need.
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