Applying for SSI
SSDI and SSI are two similar but different programs which provide financial assistance to thousands of people in the United States. The main differences between the two are who is qualified for each, and when a potential recipient applies for them.
SSDI is provided for individuals who can no longer work, but have paid into the Social Security trust fund in the past. Those who apply for SSI (Supplemental Security Income) often have not paid enough into Social Security to receive benefits from it. Those who are eligible to receive SSI also have a limited or restricted income and few resources available to them. It’s important to note that even if someone is eligible for SSDI that does not mean they are not also eligible for SSI.
Those who are looking to apply for SSI benefits will have to go through a long, tedious process involving paperwork, documentation, and research. Medical paperwork, such as hospital records and bills, will need to be collected and provided to the Social Security Administration. Choosing the correct files, as well as organizing and obtaining them, can be difficult for those who may not know precisely what the Social Security Administration wants or requires.
Deadlines are also an issue for many people attempting to file for SSI. If something important is not turned in by or before the deadline date, obtaining benefits can become even more difficult.
It is also important to note that it is fairly common for an initial claim to be denied. Without a lawyer by your side, this can be incredibly disheartening. The notion of applying for an appeal may make an applicant want to give up entirely.
What An SSI Attorney Can Do For You
Finding an SSI lawyer in Oakland who has years of experience working on SSI and SSDI claims is the best thing an applicant can do for themselves. With an attorney, you will not be responsible for filing the paperwork, making sure it gets turned in on time, or have to advocate for yourself at the Social Security Administration. Not only that, chances are your application will be considered more seriously if you have legal representation.
If your initial claim for SSI benefits is denied, having a lawyer at your side makes the appeal process much easier and more likely to succeed. An SSI attorney will know which records to file and provide to the Social Security Administration. They will also know what medical symptoms correlate to the legal definition of your disability, and therefore, what notes to include in your claim.
Finally, any potential snags you hit along the way may be anticipated by your attorney. If they aren’t, an experienced SSI lawyer will be able to navigate them and better your chances of receiving the benefits you deserve. Having an attorney at your side will also help support your case should you need to request a hearing with an administrative law judge.
SSI Lawyer in Oakland, CA
Are you looking for an SSI attorney in northern California? Contact Ortega Disability Group, an experienced law firm dedicated to ensuring clients receive the benefits they deserve.
We have handled thousands of disability claims across California. Our law offices are located in Oakland, Alameda, and Orange. Get in touch with us today and we will work to get you the help you need.