North Carolina Supplemental Security Income Attorneys

What Is Supplemental Security Income?

Supplemental Security Income is a federal program that pays monthly cash benefits to individuals who have limited income and resources. The point of SSI is to help qualifying individuals meet their basic needs, including:

• Food
• Housing
• Clothing

Since SSI is based on financial need, a person’s benefits may be reduced if another person or entity already helps them afford or access basic needs. For example, they may be disqualified if their spouse makes a significant amount of income; if they have an excess of resources, such as multiple properties and cars; or if they are under the care of a government institution, such as a prison or halfway house.

The program is administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA), but it is funded by general tax revenues rather than Social Security taxes. SSI benefits are designed to provide a safety net for individuals who are unable to work due to severe disabilities and who do not have sufficient financial resources to support themselves.

Am I Eligible for SSI?

To qualify for SSI, you must be either at least 65 years old, blind, or have a disability and meet the following criteria:

• You must have limited income and resources;
• You must be a U.S. citizen, national, or a certain type of noncitizen; and
• You must be a resident of the U.S. or the Northern Mariana Islands.

Children of military parents who reside outside the U.S. due to that parent’s permanent assignment and students in temporary study abroad programs are exempt from the last requirement.

Most people who qualify for SSI also qualify for other benefits, such as Social Security Disability Insurance, retirement benefits, and Medicare. Further, collecting SSI will not bar you from applying for these other benefits.

How Do You Apply for SSI?

Applying for SSI can be done through the Social Security Administration’s website, by phone, or by visiting a local SSA office. The application process involves providing detailed information about your income, resources, living arrangements, and medical condition if applying based on disability. 

You must gather all necessary documentation, such as bank statements, pay stubs, medical records, and proof of citizenship or legal residency. The SSA may also require an interview to discuss your application in more detail. Once submitted, the application will be reviewed, and the SSA will notify you of their decision.

What is the Difference Between SSI and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)?

SSI and SSDI are both programs that provide financial assistance to disabled individuals, but they have different eligibility requirements and funding sources. SSI is a need-based program for individuals with limited income and resources, regardless of their work history. It is funded by general tax revenues. In contrast, SSDI is an insurance program that provides benefits to individuals who have a sufficient work history and have paid Social Security taxes. 

SSDI benefits are based on the individual’s earnings record, and there are no income or resource limits to qualify. Additionally, SSDI recipients may receive Medicare benefits, whereas SSI recipients typically qualify for Medicaid.

Call an SSI Attorney Today

Applying for SSI benefits can be frustrating, but that’s where we come in. At Lanier Law Group, P.A., we work to expedite and simplify the claims process, offering honest, compassionate legal counsel at every step of the way. Our passion for making basic needs accessible for everyone in our community is a driving force behind our practice. To date, we have assisted hundreds of North Carolina residents in successfully applying for SSI.