If you suffer from health problems, it takes a toll in several ways. For starters, it can weaken you physically, making it difficult to perform daily tasks.
However, health problems can also make it impossible for you to work. If you cannot work, you can’t earn the money you need to pay your bills. This problem can prove disastrous, whether you live alone or have a family.
Fortunately, the Social Security Administration provides SSI (Supplemental Security Income) for people to get the money they need. The question is, how long does it take to get approved for SSI?
If you’re wondering about this, then you’ve come to the right place. You can learn more about this program in the guide below!
SSI Requirements
To qualify for SSI, an applicant must meet several requirements. Typically, they must be 65 or older. However, a blind or disabled person may also qualify for SSI.
Age and physical status, however, are not the only things required for SSI approval. Applicants must also have limited income and resources, as well as be a US citizen or national.
Several other conditions also apply, but these are the primary qualifications. However, the government won’t magically put you on SSI when you meet these. Instead, you must file an application for SSI benefits.
Once you submit the application, you’ll undergo the SSI approval process. We’ll discuss this further in the next section.
The SSI Approval Process
Once you submit your application, the SSA will review your qualifications to determine if you can receive SSI benefits. To do so, they’ll examine several factors.
First, they’ll verify your work and income status. If you’re still making the equivalent of an annual income, the SSA will likely deny your request.
They’ll also investigate the severity of your disability. If you exaggerate your condition for the sake of receiving benefits, you’re unlikely to receive benefits.
Those are the primary factors that the SSA will examine. However, they’ll also look into other considerations, such as your:
- legal status
- residential status
- travel records (to ensure you haven’t been out of the country for a year)
Once they process your social security disability claim, the SSA will determine whether to grant your SSI request.
How Long Does it Take to Get Approved for SSI?
Generally, SSI approval takes much less time than its SSDI counterpart. Whereas SSDI may take up to five months to receive approval, SSI often sees results within a month.
You may wonder, “Do I need a lawyer to get SSI benefits?” While you do not need a lawyer for your initial application, it can certainly help speed things along.
A lawyer also comes in handy if the SSA denies your request. You stand a better chance of appealing your case with a lawyer.
Apply for SSI Today!
If you’re wondering, “How long does it take to get approved for SSI?” take action today! File your SSI application once you’ve determined you qualify for benefits.
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