An Overview Of Supplemental Security Income
When a person has a disability or gets older, it can become difficult to earn money, which can cause them to struggle just to get by. Thankfully, programs like Supplemental Security Income (SSI) can provide individuals with the financial support they need to cover their living expenses. At Law Offices of Daniel Berger, our lawyers help people in New York learn about SSI, determine their eligibility and pursue benefits on their behalf.
What Is SSI?
SSI is a program run by the Social Security Administration (SSA) that provides monthly payments to adults and children with disabilities and people over the age of 65. The SSA also runs the Social Security Disability program.
How To Qualify For SSI
SSI limits the amount of income and assets that applicants can have. If you’re applying as an individual, your monthly earnings can’t exceed $1,913. The limit is higher for couples and parents seeking benefits on behalf of their children. The SSA limits the amount of unearned income you can receive, like disability, pension and unemployment payments.
The SSA counts things like second vehicles and money in bank accounts toward the asset limit. Individuals must have less than $2,000 in assets. That figure increases to $3,000 for couples and $4,000 for parents applying for their children.
If the applicant is younger than 65, then they must have a disability or a medical condition that makes them unable to work for at least a year. For children, the condition must severely limit their daily activity. Adults over 65 don’t need to have a disability to qualify for SSI.
How Much Do SSI Benefits Pay?
Currently, the maximum monthly payment an individual can receive from SSI is $914 and that for a couple is $1,371. Those figures decrease by $1 for every $2 a person earns from working and by $1 for every $1 a person receives in unearned income. Their family members’ income and living situations can also affect how much they receive from SSI.
How To Apply For SSI Benefits
If you’re interested in applying for SSI, you can learn more about it on the SSA’s website. Our attorneys strongly encourage you to have legal guidance throughout this process. They can help you prepare a strong application and maximize your odds of receiving the maximum payment you’re eligible for.
Talk To An SSI Attorney Today
To begin seeking SSI benefits, arrange a consultation with one of our experienced lawyers today. You can reach our office by phone at 718-691-7475. You may also send us a message online.