Your disability forces you to leave the workplace. Is Supplemental Security Income (SSI) right for you? This program is available to individuals with limited income and total assets of less than $2,000. Meanwhile, assets for married couples are limited to $3,000.
Generally speaking, SSI recipients do not pay enough taxes to qualify for Social Security Disability (SSDI) benefits, but they are still eligible for food stamps and Medicaid. To start receiving SSI benefits, you must meet with a claims representative. Of course, any interview can be stressful. However, hopefully the following information and tips will help you feel mentally prepared and confident when heading into an important meeting.
SSI process
Before your interview, you will need to fill out an application form. First, visit the Adult Disability Checklist on the Social Security Administration (SSA) website. This page lists all the data points you will need going forward. Give yourself a few weeks or so to gather everything you need. When you are ready, you can fill out an application for disability benefits on the SSA website. After you submit your application, the SSA will let you know what documents (such as a medical release form) are required before scheduling an interview.
You may be able to do a phone interview, but you'll most likely have to go to your local Social Security office and sit down with a claims representative. After the meeting, the representative will submit your claim to the examiner for a final decision.
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jobs, income, assets
A major topic during an SSI interview is work. You must provide information about all jobs you have held in the past 15 years and the skills involved in those jobs. Examiners will consider your employability before making a decision. If they think you can return to your most recent position or find a different type of job, you may not receive benefits.
Also, does your spouse have a job? Do you have any other sources of income besides salary? People's income can include gifts from family members, rent, pensions, workers' compensation and various types of government benefits. By the way, if you do receive government benefits now, bring those records with you if possible.
If you are asked to record your assets, remember that an asset is basically anything of value that you own. Your personal asset list may include petty cash, bank savings, retirement savings, art, antiques, stocks, bonds and other investments.
You can exclude your primary residence and one of your vehicles from your property list. But all your other homes, real estate assets, and vehicles (if you have any) must be counted.
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medical issues
Understandably, you will need to answer inquiries about your medical condition. What medical tests have you had? What medications are you currently taking?
You will also need to provide the name of each attending physician. Your primary care physician is the doctor you have been seeing for some time and is a professional who knows your medical condition very well. Review your electronic medical record in advance. (You can call your doctor's office if you need help accessing them.) Using these records, list each place you have received treatment since you first became disabled. Then, during your interview, be prepared to:
- The addresses and phone numbers of these places.
- Doctor's full name.
- Your appointment date.
Go back in time as much as possible. This way, you can receive as much disability compensation as possible. In addition, make at least one medical appointment within 90 days of the interview. This is because some of your medical information must be up to date.
The investigators working on your case will use all of this information to independently verify your claims.
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Other Topics in SSI Interviews
Your interviewer will ask about your marital status and divorce history. It is helpful to bring copies of your marriage and divorce certificates.
If you have children 18 years of age or younger, you will disclose their names and dates of birth. Also, if you have an adult son or daughter who was disabled before age 22, you should also bring that child's medical records. In either case, your child can receive SS benefits.
Most importantly, if you are a veteran, be prepared to share the military branch you served, your highest rank and dates of service. Also get a copy of your discharge certificate. Veterans sometimes qualify for higher disability benefits.
SSI Interview FAQs
1. What to expect at your first SSI interview?
During your first SSI interview, a Social Security representative will review your application, ask about your income, assets, living situation, and medical history, and verify your documents to confirm your eligibility for benefits.
2. What should I bring to the SSI interview?
Bring your ID, proof of income, bank statements, rent or mortgage documents, medical records, insurance cards, and any recent correspondence from the SSA. Having everything ready can help speed up the process.
3. How do I prepare for the SSI interview?
Review your application details, gather required documents, and make sure you understand your financial and medical information. Be honest and consistent in your answers to avoid delays.
4. What questions will be asked in the SSI interview?
Expect to be asked questions about your income, family members, living arrangements, expenses and medical conditions. The interviewer may also ask you about the last time you worked and how your condition affects your daily activities.
5. What should I not say during an SSI interview?
Avoid giving inconsistent answers, exaggerating symptoms, or withholding information. Be honest – the SSA will cross-check your details with federal and financial databases.
6. How long does the SSI interview take?
Most SSI interviews last one to two hours, depending on the complexity of your case and your level of preparation.
7. Can anyone attend the SSI interview with me?
Yes. You can have a friend, advocate, or legal representative join you to help you understand the process and provide support during the interview.
8. What happens after the SSI interview?
After your interview, the SSA will review your documents and verify your information. You will receive a letter containing your decision or a request for additional documents within a few weeks.
Ultimately, most SSI applications are denied. However, if you think your claim has been unfairly denied, you can appeal the decision. Having a reputable SSI attorney on your side will greatly support your case. It's a fight worth fighting; the benefits can pave the way to a financially secure and happy future.
Please contact Good Law Group to learn more about the SSI filing process. Our firm offers compassionate service and free case evaluations.
