Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a benefits program that provides qualifying individuals with financial support to help them make ends meet. Individuals who are disabled may seek SSI, but they are not the only ones who may qualify. This post will offer a general overview of what it takes for a person to qualify for SSI, but Oklahoma residents who wish to learn more should contact a trusted disability benefits attorney.
In addition to disabled individuals, SSI may also be pursued by individuals aged 65 and older, as well as those individuals who are blind. Falling into one of these three qualifying categories is not all that a person must do to be eligible for SSI, though, as one of the foundational principles of SSI is to support individuals with limited means.
The Social Security Administration requires evidence that a claimant has few resources on which to support themselves. They will look at the applicant’s income earned from working, the help they get from others that they do not have to pay for, and any other benefits that they receive from governmental agencies. If their outside support is sufficiently low, then they may be able to receive SSI help.
Citizens of the United States are eligible for SSI, as are some qualified noncitizens. Consultation with a disability benefits attorney is a good way for a noncitizen to better understand if they are able to seek support from the SSI program.
Whether through age, blindness, or disability, the inability to work is a severe detriment to a person’s capacity to take care of themselves. Disability benefits programs like SSI can help individuals stay on their feet despite the hardships they have encountered throughout their lives. The process of recovering these benefits isn’t always easy, though, which is why Oklahomans who are in this position should carefully consider whether they would benefit from the assistance of a skilled legal professional.