SSI Attorney Atlanta

To be eligible for SSI, you must meet the following criteria:

• You must be 65 or older, blind, or disabled. This program is also available to blind or disabled children.
• You must be either a citizen of the United States or meet very narrow requirements based on your U.S. permanent residency, military service, or political asylum-seeker/refugee status.
• Your monthly income must be low or non-existent. Only about half of your earned income will be considered, but this income cannot be higher than an amount set by the state in which you live. Your income in Georgia can be at most $861 per month for 2022. Note that your spouse’s income will also be considered if you are married. In 2022, your combined income and your spouse's cannot exceed $1,281 monthly in Georgia. 
• Your property (minus certain items, such as your primary car and your home) must be worth less than $2,000 for an individual or $3,000 for a couple. 

Our Atlanta SSI lawyers can review your situation and help you determine if you are eligible for SSI benefits. Even if you believe you do not meet the eligibility requirements, an exception may apply. We encourage you to contact us today to set up a free initial consultation with one of our knowledgeable attorneys.

Navigating eligibility can often be more complex than it appears, with numerous exemptions and details that could significantly impact a client's eligibility. Additionally, state-specific amendments may come into play, further complicating the matter. With professional assistance, applicants can explore potential legal avenues and avoid common pitfalls in the application process. For many applicants, understanding the nuances can make a critical difference in securing necessary benefits, which can provide a lifeline amidst financial hardship.

How Much Are SSI Payments in Georgia? 

Every year, the SSA adjusts the maximum allowable SSI benefit. Some states, including Georgia, supplement these benefits. As such, the exact amount you can expect to receive in SSI payments will depend on when you apply for benefits, the state in which you apply, and other factors. 

That being said, the federal maximum SSI benefit for 2022 is $841 per month per individual recipient and $1,261 per month per married couple. Note that your benefits may be reduced by any other income you receive, including other Social Security disability benefits. 

You will also be eligible for assistance with medical care (Medicaid), visits to your doctor, and prescription medication costs. Hospital stays will also be covered. You may also be eligible for food assistance.

For more information on SSI payments and additional assistance, contact our Atlanta SSI lawyers at Affleck & Gordon. We are happy to discuss your concerns and answer any questions you may have during a free consultation and case evaluation. 

To learn how we can help you with your SSI claim, appeal, or related matter, call our office at (404) 990-3945 or contact us online and request a free, no-obligation consultation.

How to Appeal a Denied SSI Claim

Unfortunately, many SSI claims are denied. This can be highly stressful for individuals and families who desperately need these benefits to pay for housing, food, medical expenses, and other basic needs. Thankfully, you can file an appeal if your SSI claim is denied.

There are several steps involved in appealing a denied SSI claim. These include: 

• Step 1: You have the right to request a reconsideration by a different group of individuals who will review your claim to determine whether the initial decision was correct. You may proceed to the next step if the reconsideration decision is still against you. 
• Step 2: If you disagree with the reconsideration results, request a hearing before an administrative law judge (ALJ). You and your SSI attorney in Atlanta can present evidence in favor of your case at the hearing. 
• Step 3: If you are unsatisfied with the ALJ’s decision after the hearing, you can request a review with Social Security’s Appeals Council. The Appeals Council will review your case and uphold the ALJ’s decision, reverse it, or send your case back for further review. 
• Step 4: If you disagree with the results of the Appeals Council’s review, you can take your case to federal court. This is the final step in appealing your denied SSI claim and will result in a final determination on your case. 

Each appeal must be filed within 65 days (60 days plus 5 days mailing) of the date of the notice of the decision. If the Appeals Council does not rule in your favor, the administrative process will end. The only way you can overturn an administrative law judge is to take your case to federal court.

Remember, filing an appeal involves more than simply resubmitting your application. It requires a detailed analysis and understanding of why the initial claim was denied, often involving the consolidation of more robust evidence or additional information that supports eligibility. 

Successful SSI appeals often hinge on meticulous preparation and the strategic presentation of evidence. Gaining an understanding of what additional documentation or testimony might sway the decision in your favor is paramount. For instance, medical documentation directly linking your condition to your inability to work may need to be strengthened or supplemented. Our firm can help you strategize and prepare extensively for hearings and manage the often intricately detailed paperwork required in appeals, relieving you of the associated administrative burden.

Hiring an SSI lawyer in Atlanta can offer significant advantages in navigating the complexities of the appeals process. Professionals in this field can help ensure that critical evidence is presented effectively and that the appeals application adheres strictly to the required format, deadlines, and protocols established by the Social Security Administration. This professional support maximizes the chances of securing the benefits you need during what is often a challenging and stressful time.

SSI Claim FAQs

What is SSI, and how is it different from SSDI?

SSI, or Supplemental Security Income, is a needs-based federal program for people who are aged 65 or older, blind, or disabled and who have very limited income and resources. SSDI, or Social Security Disability Insurance, is not based on financial need. Instead, it depends on your work history and the Social Security taxes you have paid into the system. Both programs are managed by the Social Security Administration, and Georgia does not offer a separate disability benefit program.

What are the income and resource limits for SSI?

The Social Security Administration sets strict limits on both income and assets. The resource limit is $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a married couple. Not all assets count toward this total—for example, your primary residence and one vehicle may be excluded. Income that you earn or receive can reduce the monthly benefit amount, but certain types of income are not counted.

How do I apply for SSI in Atlanta?

• You can apply online via the SSA website.
• You can call SSA at 1-800-772-1213 to make an appointment or apply.
• You may also apply in person at your local SSA field office in Atlanta or elsewhere in Georgia.
• When applying for disability, you can file for SSI at the same time (if you meet certain conditions)

You will need documentation (medical records, proof of income, proof of assets, etc.).

What is the timeline for SSI decisions and payments?

If your SSI application is approved, benefits begin in the first full month after you are found eligible. The decision process, however, often takes several months, especially if a medical review is needed. Many first-time applications are denied, which makes appeals a common part of the process.

What happens if my SSI application is denied?

If your SSI claim is denied, you have the right to appeal. The appeals process has several stages, including reconsideration, a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge, and possible further appeals. During this process, it is important to gather and submit additional medical evidence or other documentation to strengthen your case.

Can I work and still receive SSI in Georgia?

Yes, you can work while receiving SSI, but your benefits may be reduced depending on how much you earn. The Social Security Administration offers work incentive programs designed to help you transition to employment without immediately losing benefits. Programs such as PASS (Plan to Achieve Self Support) or impairment-related work expense deductions can allow you to earn some income while still qualifying for SSI.

Will SSI in Georgia provide health coverage?

In Georgia, qualifying for SSI typically makes you eligible for Medicaid, which provides health insurance coverage for low-income residents. Enrollment is handled through the Georgia Department of Human Services and local DFCS offices.

What role does the Atlanta SSA office play in SSI claims?

Georgia falls under Social Security’s Region 4, which is headquartered in Atlanta. While SSI rules are federal, the Atlanta SSA office provides oversight and local assistance. For many applicants, the local field office is the main point of contact for submitting documents, attending appointments, and resolving issues.

Local Resources for SSI Assistance in Atlanta

Navigating Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits in Atlanta can be complex, especially for those facing unique financial and medical needs. With the growing population and specific economic demands of Atlanta, understanding the nuances of SSI can make a significant difference. Whether dealing with the Social Security Administration office in Atlanta or seeking assistance from local advocacy groups, having knowledgeable support helps you overcome potential hurdles.

For many in Atlanta, meeting the requirements for SSI can alleviate some of the financial stress associated with disability-related expenses. However, the initial application process can be challenging, with factors like income limits, disability evaluations, and asset restrictions all coming into play. Our team is familiar with the local system and will guide you from the initial application to representing you in appeals if your claim is denied.

• Georgia Advocacy Office (GAO)
• GAO offers free legal and advocacy services for people with disabilities in Georgia, assisting with rights awareness and the SSI process.
• Atlanta Legal Aid Society: This organization provides free legal help for qualified individuals, including support with SSI claims, application processes, appeals, and understanding benefits entitlements.
• Disability Link: Disability Link is a community resource center that provides information, advocacy, and peer support for people with disabilities. It can also help you access SSI and related resources.
• Atlanta VA Medical Center: For veterans seeking SSI benefits, the Atlanta VA Medical Center offers assistance with SSI and disability applications and guidance on available federal and state resources.
• Social Security Administration Office in Atlanta: The Atlanta SSA office can be a valuable starting point for your SSI application or for resolving questions about benefits and eligibility.

We know how frustrating it can be to face a complex government system, attend consultative exams, or meet strict documentation requirements. Our legal professionals in Atlanta are experienced in SSI matters and committed to offering personalized guidance. With years of experience and a solid understanding of the Atlanta community, we are here to help you secure the financial support you need.

Don't let the SSI process feel overwhelming. Contact us to learn how we can support you through each step and help you obtain the assistance necessary to sustain your quality of life in Atlanta. 

Contact Affleck & Gordon today to meet with our SSI lawyer in Atlanta!