Michigan Lawyers Helping You Seek Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Programs like Social Security Disability Insurance provide an important safety net for Americans who can no longer participate in the workforce due to disability. While SSDI provides much-needed support for those who qualify, Many Americans don’t meet the work history and other requirements necessary for eligibility.
Thankfully, another option exists. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is another federal program that provides benefits to disabled individuals who are unable to work. It is completely separate from Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), and it is possible to qualify for both SSDI and SSI.
SSI is a needs-based program. As such, you do not need to have earned a certain number of work credits to be eligible for SSI benefits. Instead, the program is designed to provide financial assistance to needy individuals who meet certain disability and income requirements.
Both of these programs involve a complex application process, and many applications are rejected the first time. For these and other reasons, it is a good idea to seek the assistance of a knowledgeable disability benefits attorney like those at Bahrie Law, PLLC.
Our firm has been serving Michigan clients for more than 40 years. We have offices in Lansing and Livonia (Metro Detroit). As a client, you’ll benefit from our lawyers’ experience, resources and commitment to client service.
Who Qualifies For SSI Benefits?
To qualify for Supplemental Security Income benefits, you must be one or more of the following:
- 65 or older
- Blind
- Disabled
And you must meet all three of the following requirements:
- Have limited income
- Have limited resources
- Be a U.S. citizen, national, or a qualifying immigrant
“Limited income and resources” are determined by the SSA based on all income you receive, as well as your assets. Some income and resources are excluded, such as a residential home and a single vehicle, meaning they are not “countable” and do not affect your eligibility. To qualify for SSI, you must have less than $2,000 in countable income/resources if you are single and less than $3,000 in countable income/resources if you are married.
How Much Can You Receive In SSI Benefits?
Supplemental Security Income benefits are limited depending on your situation and are subject to certain caps. Specifically, the amount you can receive if you are single is different than the amount you are eligible for if you are married and both you and your spouse qualify for SSI.
If you are single, you can receive SSI benefits up to the following amounts (as of 2023):
- $914.00 per month if you do not receive assistance for food or shelter
- $529.33 per month if you do receive assistance for food or shelter
- $37.00 per month if you live in a medical care facility
If you are part of a couple and both you and your partner are eligible for SSI, you can receive the following:
- Up to $1,371.00 per month if you do not receive assistance for food or shelter
- Up to $794.00 per month if you do receive assistance for food or shelter
- Up to $74.00 per month if you live in a medical care facility
Every year, the SSA adjusts these numbers to account for the cost of living. Reach out to our firm to learn more, including whether SSI benefit caps have changed.
Why Work With An Attorney When Seeking Benefits?
Just like applying for SSDI benefits, the application process for SSI is complicated, time-consuming and often requires supporting documentation and evidence that many people don’t know how to find on their own. Unfortunately, an onerous process meant to weed out those who don’t qualify also denies benefits to many who would otherwise be eligible.
Thankfully, working with a knowledgeable attorney like those at our firm can make the application process easier, faster and less stressful. It will also ensure that you submit a complete and accurate application and that the approval process isn’t unduly delayed by errors and omissions.
Get Answers To Your Questions During An Initial Consultation
If you’d like to know more about Supplemental Security Income benefits or need help with an application, contact Bahrie Law, PLLC, today.
From our offices in Lansing and Metro Detroit, we serve clients throughout Michigan. To schedule your initial consultation, contact us online or call 888-473-1289.