Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a disability benefit for those who have a medical impairment and can demonstrate financial need. Because qualifying for SSI is challenging, having an experienced disability attorney is essential. That’s where The Law Office of Carey Thompson, PC, steps in.
We regularly help disabled individuals throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth area obtain the benefits they deserve. Our attorneys have comprehensive knowledge of the eligibility requirements for SSI and a track record of achieving positive outcomes. When you become our client, we will guide you through all aspects of the claims process and protect your rights. Call our El Paso office for a free consultation.
Qualifying for Supplement Security Income Benefits in Texas
According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), to qualify for SSI, you must be disabled, over the age of 65, or blind. Children under the age of 18 who have physical and mental conditions that limit their daily activities are also eligible. Notably, SSI is a means-tested program. This means you must have limited income and resources to be eligible. The income and asset limits are as follows:
SSI Income Limits
In 2023, individuals who earn up to $934 per month ($1,391 for a couple) may qualify for SSI. This limit is based on the federal benefit rate or FBR and is adjusted annually if there is a Social Security cost of living adjustment (COLA). The SSA includes several sources of income in the SSI income limit, including:
- Earnings generated from work (earned income)
- Payments from other sources – pension, alimony, child support, Veterans Benefits (unearned income)
- Benefits from a nongovernmental source, such as living rent-free with a relative (in-kind income)
- A portion of income earned by a spouse or another household member (deemed income)
However, the SSA excludes a portion of your income and certain benefits for its determination, including:
- $20 per month of unearned income
- $65 per month of earned income
- Medical care
- SNAP benefits
- Housing and home energy assistance
- Reimbursed expenses from a social services agency
- Housing or home energy assistance
SSI Asset Limits
Under SSA guidelines, financial resources cannot exceed $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a married couple. The SSA includes the following resources in its calculation:
- Cash
- Bank accounts
- Stocks and bonds
- Household goods and personal effects greater than $2,000
- Cash value in life insurance policies exceeding $1,500
- More than one motor vehicle
- Non-owner-occupied real estate
However, the SSA excludes certain resources from the limit, including:
- A home – a primary residence only
- One motor vehicle
- Earned income tax credit payments
- Child tax credit payments
- State or local relocation assistance payments
- Income set aside for SSI “PASS” savings
- Grants, scholarships, fellowships
- Gifts for tuition and educational expenses
- Wedding rings/engagement rings
- Burial savings
As you can see, meeting the income and asset requirements is complicated and confusing, and the SSA frequently denies initial claims. By working with our experienced El Paso disability attorney, you have a better chance of obtaining the benefits you need and deserve.
How Our Firm Can Help
Given the challenges of qualifying for SSI, you need an experienced disability lawyer who understands your situation. You can trust The Law Office of Carey Thompson to:
- Assist with completing your SSI application
- Ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements
- Build a convincing medical record
- Handle all communications with disability examiners
If your claim is denied, we will help you file a disability appeal and represent you at the disability hearing. This is an informal hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) who will review the medical record, hear testimony from medical experts, and determine whether you qualify for SSI. Rest assured, we will be by your side, fighting to protect your rights. We have the skills, experience, and determination to get you the benefits you need and deserve.
Talk To An Experienced Texas Disability Attorney Today
If you or a loved one needs help obtaining SSI or appealing an SSA determination, turn to The Law Office of Carey Thompson. We offer compassionate, effective representation and personalized attention. Because we understand your physical, emotional, and financial burdens, we will charge no attorney fees until we win benefits for you. Contact us today to get started.