When it comes to obtaining SSI benefits, it’s no secret that the process is complicated. This is where the expertise of an SSI lawyer can come in handy. But with seemingly endless options available, choosing the right “Social Security lawyer near me” can be challenging. Fortunately, there are specific qualifications you should look for in an SSI lawyer before hiring them. By asking questions about their experience, success rate, and communication skills, you can ensure that you are making the right decision when choosing an SSI lawyer. With the right legal guidance, you can receive the benefits you deserve and begin moving forward with peace of mind.
Good SSI Lawyers Know Who is Eligible for SSI Benefits
Everyone deserves a helping hand when needed, which is what Supplemental Security Insurance benefits are for. Fortunately, eligibility for these benefits is available to many individuals. Those who are disabled, blind, or over the age of 65 can qualify for SSI benefits. Unlike other government benefits, SSI has no prior work history requirements. This means that even if you have never paid into Social Security, you can still be eligible for SSI benefits, as general tax revenue funds them. A good SSI lawyer knows all the ins and outs of eligibility requirements and can help guide you through the process of obtaining the support you deserve.
A Good SSI Lawyer Can Help You Understand the Requirements for SSI Benefit Eligibility
Although there are no prior work history requirements for SSI benefits, you must meet certain requirements to receive SSI funds. These requirements are:
- You must be “legally disabled,” blind, or over the age of 65. Certain illnesses or medical conditions could indicate that you are legally disabled.
- You are unable to complete any substantial gainful activity. In other words, you are unable to work.
- You have been unable to work for at least 12 consecutive months. It is not enough that you have been unable to find work. Instead, you must prove that you are unable to complete job functions due to your disability.
- You are facing hardship due to your limited income, including difficulty paying for housing, food, clothing, and medical care.
When completing the SSI application form, you must explain how you meet each of these.
A good SSI lawyer will know exactly how much you can make a month and still qualify.
A Good SSI Lawyer Can Argue that You Are Legally Disabled
The Social Security Administration (SSA) and Disability Benefits
Qualifying for Benefits
To qualify for benefits, you must meet the following criteria:
1. Non-employment: You are currently not working.
2. Medical condition: You have a medical condition or impairment.
3. Severity: Your medical condition is severe enough to prevent you from working.
4. Previous job: You cannot perform the job you had before becoming disabled.
5. Alternative job: Even less physically or mentally demanding jobs are not feasible for you.
Consult with SSI Lawyers
At Gallon, Takacs & Boissoneault, our Ohio SSI lawyers can assess your qualifications for SSI benefits based on your disability. Suppose there is any uncertainty regarding your eligibility. In that case, our lawyers will collaborate with medical experts and other parties to establish the severity of your disability and ensure your entitlement to SSI benefits.
Why should I hire an SSI lawyer?
Applying for SSI benefits can be quite a daunting task. Even the slightest mistake on your application can lead to a denial of benefits. It can be tempting to complete the application on your own or with the help of a family member, but hiring an SSI lawyer who knows the ins and outs of the process can mean the difference between being granted benefits and being turned away. At Gallon, Takacs & Boissoneault, our Toledo Social Security attorneys know the best arguments to make and strategies to use on your behalf. With our help, you can rest assured that your application will be completed flawlessly, giving you the best chance of receiving the benefits you deserve. We will handle the entire application process for you and ensure that you no longer have to deal with the stress and hassle that comes with it. With our help, you can focus on the important things in your life while we fight to ensure you get the necessary benefits.
Gallon, Takacs & Boissoneault Can Help
Have you considered applying for SSI benefits but are unsure if you qualify? Don’t waste any more time guessing. Schedule a consultation with our experienced SSI lawyers at Gallon, Takacs & Boissoneault and get your needed answers. The consultation visit is completely free, and you are not obligated to proceed further if you decide not to. During the consultation, we will carefully examine the details of your case and give you our honest opinion about your chances of qualifying for SSI benefits. You can trust that we will do everything possible to ensure you receive the benefits you deserve. Don’t wait any longer; call us today at 419-843-6663 or use our online contact form to schedule your consultation with our dedicated SSI lawyers.
Ted Bowman is a Senior Associate and practices in the Workers’ Compensation and Social Security Disability sections. Ted began his career with GT&B in 1988. His reputation and success record as a trial lawyer arguing before the Industrial Commission on behalf of injured workers, as well as in trial courts and the Supreme Court of Ohio, are well known.