Supplemental Security Income In Florida: Frequently Asked Questions
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are two separate programs that provide disability benefits to individuals who qualify. At J. Michael Matthews, P.A., we have more than 40 years of experience in handling claims for SSDI and SSI benefits. We understand how complex and frustrating the application process can be, and we are here to help.
For a free consultation, please call us in Longwood at 407-278-8418 or complete our contact form. Attorney J. Michael Matthews serves clients throughout Seminole, Orange and Osceola counties and the surrounding areas.
Who qualifies for SSI?
SSI is a need-based program. That means your income and assets must be lower than the threshold established by the Social Security Administration (SSA). The SSA periodically updates that threshold based on broader economic factors. People who qualify for SSI include:
- Disabled adults with low income and assets
- Disabled adults who don’t meet the work history requirements for SSDI benefits
- Children with disabilities
Will the SSA consider the income of anyone else in my household when reviewing my SSI application?
In some cases, when determining whether you qualify for SSI, the SSA may consider the income of other people living with you. For example, the SSA may count some of the income of a disabled child’s parents, or the SSA may count the income of an SSI applicant’s spouse. Contact us today if you have questions about income eligibility requirements for SSI.
What types of medical conditions qualify for SSI?
A wide variety of medical conditions may result in disabilities that qualify for SSI benefits. In every case, sufficient medical evidence is needed to show the severity of the disability and its expected duration. Types of medical conditions covered by SSI include but are not limited to:
- Mental disorders
- Neurological disorders
- Vision and hearing loss
- Cardiovascular diseases
- Musculoskeletal conditions
- Cancer
- Kidney diseases
- Immune system disorders
- Respiratory illnesses
- Skin disorders
- Hematological disorders and anemias
- Digestive disorders
Do I need an attorney to handle my SSI claim?
Even if it seems obvious that you meet the medical and nonmedical requirements for SSI benefits, it is important to have an experienced Social Security Disability attorney on your side to handle your claim and guide you through the application process. Claims for legitimate disabilities are rejected all the time; in fact, the vast majority of claims are denied on the first try. You need someone on your side who knows the system and the process. Even if your initial application has been rejected, you may still be eligible for SSI benefits if you get help from an SSI lawyer.
Contact Us For A Free Consultation
At J. Michael Matthews, P.A., we do not collect attorney’s fees unless we help you successfully obtain benefits. Please call us at 407-278-8418 or complete our contact form to arrange a free consultation regarding your case.