San Antonio Supplemental Security Income Attorneys

Comprehensive Legal Support with SSI Benefits in Bexar County

Did you know that there are lawyers who focus on Supplemental Security Income (SSI) claims? If you or a loved one is disabled and you’re not sure if you’re eligible for SSI benefits, you should get in touch with a qualified SSI lawyer. At The Packard Law Firm, we have extensive experience helping people apply for and receive the benefits they deserve. We understand the ins and outs of this difficult legal process, and we’re prepared to work tirelessly to get you the benefits you need.

Our San Antonio Supplemental Security Income lawyers offer free consultations, so if you’re facing low-income or disability challenges, don’t hesitate to call (210) 972-8918 or contact us online. 

What Is Supplemental Security Income?

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a United States government program that provides monthly payments to low-income individuals who are blind or have another disability. The program is overseen by the Social Security Administration (SSA).

To be eligible for SSI, an individual must meet certain financial requirements. Specifically, the individual’s income and assets must fall below a certain level. In addition, the individual must be a U.S. citizen or national or have been lawfully admitted to the United States for permanent residence.

SSI payments are need-based. The amount of the monthly payment may vary depending on factors like whether the individual lives alone or with others and whether the individual has any other source of income. SSI payments are not considered taxable income.

In addition to providing financial assistance, SSI also comes with certain medical benefits. Individuals who receive SSI payments are automatically eligible for Medicaid. Medicaid is a government health insurance program that pays for medical care for low-income individuals. SSI recipients may also be eligible for food stamps and housing assistance.

How Do I Apply for Supplemental Security Income?

Successfully applying for SSI can be challenging. It’s important to understand the requirements and gather all the necessary documentation before beginning the application process. The next step is to contact the SSA and schedule an appointment.

During the appointment, the SSA will collect information about your income, assets, and living situation. You’ll also need to provide proof of your disability. After you’ve submitted your application, the SSA will review your case and make a decision. If you’re approved for benefits, you’ll begin receiving payments every month. If you’re denied benefits, you have the right to appeal the decision.

What Can I Do If My SSI Application Was Rejected?

SSI applications can be rejected for a variety of reasons. One common issue is insufficient medical evidence, where claimants fail to provide adequate documentation to support their disability claim. Mistakes or omissions in the application, such as incomplete forms or missed deadlines, also contribute significantly to claim rejections. 

There are several things you can do to try and get an initially rejected SSI application approved:

• Review the reason for the denial. The SSA will send you a letter explaining why your application was denied. This letter will also tell you what you need to do next.
• Gather additional evidence. One of the most common reasons for SSI denial is a lack of evidence. The SSA will need medical evidence to prove that you are disabled and unable to work.
• Appeal the decision. Your appeal must be filed within 60 days of the date on your denial letter. 
• Hire a lawyer. You may want to consider hiring an attorney to help you with the process. A lawyer can help you gather evidence and file the necessary paperwork.

Submitting or appealing an SSI application can be daunting, but you do not have to go through this process alone. Our San Antonio Supplemental Security Income attorneys can represent you in your case and assist with your initial application or appeal.

What Can an Experienced SSI Lawyer Do for Me?

Our SSI lawyers at The Packard Law Firm represent clients in San Antonio, Texas and the surrounding areas. We can help you navigate the complexities of the SSI application and appeals processes. 

Our team can provide guidance in gathering and organizing the necessary medical evidence to substantiate your claim so that all relevant conditions and limitations are thoroughly documented. We understand the intricate requirements of the SSA and can help present your case in the most favorable light.

Our attorneys can also assist in accurately completing your application forms, mitigating the risk of errors or omissions that could lead to a denial. Should your claim face rejection, we are well-equipped to handle the appeals process, representing you at hearings and crafting a strategy tailored to your specific circumstances. This extends to communicating and negotiating with SSA representatives, clarifying any ambiguities, and advocating vigorously on your behalf.

If you can no longer work due to a disability, you are likely already overwhelmed as you try to figure out how you will make ends meet and take care of yourself and your family. We aim to make the process of getting the benefits you need and deserve as straightforward and stress-free as possible. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Supplemental Security Income in San Antonio, TX

I Recently Moved to San Antonio from Another State. How Does My Previous SSI Benefits History Affect My Eligibility?

Moving to a new state may raise questions about how your previous SSI benefits history affects your eligibility in your new home. Fortunately, SSI is a federal program, and your benefits and eligibility criteria remain consistent across states. However, you must update your address with the Social Security Administration to ensure continued, uninterrupted benefits and communication. Additionally, while the federal benefits remain the same, note that Texas does not offer its own state disability program and does not supplement these federal benefits.

I’m a Student with a Disability. Can I Still Qualify for SSI?

Yes, you can qualify for SSI as a student with a disability if you meet specific eligibility criteria. The SSA recognizes that students may have unique circumstances, so it provides opportunities for those with disabilities to receive SSI. To qualify, you must demonstrate you have a disability that meets the SSA's definition that significantly limits your ability to function and is expected to last at least one year or result in death. Additionally, your household income and resources must fall below the program’s limits. The Student Earned Income Exclusion (SEIE) is a special provision that allows eligible students to work part-time while attending school and still receive SSI benefits. You must be careful to provide detailed documentation of your disability and keep the SSA updated on any changes in your educational status or earnings to ensure continued eligibility.

I Live in a Federally Subsidized Housing Unit. How Does This Impact My SSI Eligibility?

Section 8 vouchers are federal assistance grants provided to low-income families, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities to help them afford safe housing in the private market. These vouchers cover a portion of the rent, allowing beneficiaries to choose their housing accommodations. Importantly, the value of Section 8 housing assistance does not count toward your Supplemental Security Income (SSI) income eligibility limit. In general, according to the SSA, government housing assistance linked to the Housing Authorization Act of 1976 should be excluded from your total income and resources for purposes of evaluating SSI eligibility.

I Have a Chronic Condition That Requires Expensive Medications. Will SSI Help Cover These Costs?

While SSI can provide financial assistance to individuals with limited income and resources, it is not specifically designed to cover the cost of medications directly. SSI benefits are intended to help with basic needs, such as food, clothing, and shelter. However, qualifying for SSI generally makes you eligible for Medicaid, a program that can help cover medical expenses, including the cost of prescription medications.

I'm Trying to Return to Work Part-Time. How Will This Affect My SSI Benefits?

Returning to work part-time while receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) can affect your benefits, but the SSA has programs in place to encourage work without losing essential benefits outright. SSI beneficiaries are subject to income limits, so part of your earnings will be counted against these limits, potentially reducing your monthly SSI payment. However, the SSA offers work incentives, such as the “earned income exclusion,” which allows you to exclude a portion of your earned income when calculating benefits. You can also attempt to return to work during a “Trial Work Period” without losing your disability benefits, but you’ll need to report your work activity to the SSA. Our San Antonio Supplemental Security Income lawyers can answer your questions about returning to work while receiving benefits and help you maintain compliance with all applicable rules.

I’m Self-Employed. Can I Still Qualify for SSI?

Being self-employed does not inherently disqualify you from receiving SSI, but it does introduce specific considerations for eligibility. Like standard employment, your total income and resources must fall within the SSI limits. As a self-employed individual, the SSA will assess your net earnings from self-employment, which are calculated differently compared to wage earners. You must accurately report all business income and expenses to determine your net earnings. The SSA will then apply applicable exclusions to part of your income, similar to those for employed beneficiaries, to establish your qualification for SSI benefits. You must keep detailed records of your earnings and expenses and submit this information to the SSA. Additionally, your disability status and the ability to work will be significant factors in determining eligibility. We strongly recommend discussing your circumstances with an attorney if you are attempting to secure SSI benefits while self-employed. 

I’m Caring for a Disabled Child. Are There Additional SSI Benefits Available?

Caring for a disabled child can be challenging, but SSI benefits may be available to assist families in this situation. If your child is under the age of 18 and meets the SSA’s criteria for disability and income/resource limitations, they may be eligible for SSI benefits. The child's impairment must cause "marked and severe functional limitations" and be expected to last at least one year or result in death. As the parent or guardian, your income and resources are considered those of your child and are evaluated as part of the eligibility evaluation. In Texas, your child will also be eligible for Medicaid if they qualify for SSI payments, which can provide additional financial resources for medical care.

Get your SSI questions answered! Call (210) 972-8918 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation today.