Understanding Social Security SSIThe Social Security Administration in the United States is a government agency that provides a priceless resource to many people. Individuals born with a disability often find it challenging to hold a job. For them, living in poverty is almost a certainty simply because they were born with an impairment that makes it harder to find employment. For them the Social Security Administration has a program called Supplemental Security Income or Social Security SSI. This program provides them with an income that can help them live an easier and more fulfilling life. Social Security SSI benefits are available for both children and adults. The application process can be lengthy so it's important that anyone who believes they qualify apply as soon as possible. The application process can be completed in several ways including online, by mail, on the telephone or in person. Although it may seem that the application will be processed sooner if done in person, this isn't always the case as in person consultations with a representative of the Social Security office has to be done by appointment. In order to qualify for Social Security SSI benefits an individual has to meet certain criteria. These criteria include not being able to work. Many people mistakenly believe that they can collect SSI benefits if they are going to be off work for just a few weeks or months. This simply isn't the case. In order to be able to collect SSI benefits an individual must prove medically that they are unable to work at all for a period of at minimum one year. People who are disabled and have very low incomes or those who have been unable to work much of their adult life at all qualify for SSI benefits. In terms of children, the requirements naturally differ somewhat. Children who are blind or disabled can apply for Social Security SSI benefits. A child is referred to as someone under the age of eighteen-years-old and the disability can be from the onset of their life or could have happened sometime after. Another factor that plays a part in determining the level of benefits a child may be entitled to concerns the income level of the child's parents. This income has to be declared on the application form for the child. Once an application has been submitted, it becomes a waiting game. Because of the volume of applications constantly streaming into the Social Security Administration office it can take weeks to hear back. If the application is approved, the individual can expect to start receiving money after an initial waiting period has passed. If they are declined benefits, they can either reapply or go through the appeal process. Again, this can take weeks and it's often suggested that hiring a lawyer who is skilled in SSI benefits is warranted to help with the appeal. |