YOUR DOWNERS GROVE SOCIAL SECURITY LAWYER EXPLAINS SSD AND SSI
If you are unable to work because of a disability, you may be struggling for income and not know where to turn. The federal government provides financial assistance for people whose disabilities prevent them from working. Downers Grove Social Security lawyer Mary L. Collins has practiced disability law for over 30 years, and in her Social Security Disability law practice, she and her knowledgeable staff assist individuals denied benefits at any stage of the application, reconsideration and hearing level. Qualified individuals can and should apply for Social Security Disability or SSI benefits without legal representation. If you qualify for either SSDI or SSI, you may be eligible to receive health insurance through either Medicare or Medicaid to ensure you receive necessary medical care and treatment.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
Social Security Disability Insurance is a program funded by Social Security taxes, and is available to disabled individuals who earned sufficient credits based on their taxable work history. The amount of monthly disability benefit reflects the Social Security earning record of the insured worker. Disability is defined as a severe impairment or combination of impairments that prevent you from working for a period of 12 months or longer.
Disability benefits are available to:
Blind or disabled workers
Children of qualified workers
Widow(er)s of qualified workers
Adults who have been disabled since childhood, i.e., prior to age 22 and continuing
You do not need to wait to apply for disability benefits. If you are expecting your disability to last for over 12 months or if you are not sure you can return to work within 12 months, apply now, as the application process takes time. You can apply to SSDI with the online disability application or at your local SSA office. The benefits will continue as long as your medical condition has not improved and you remain unable to work.
Supplementary Security Income (SSI)
Supplementary Security Income (SSI) is available for disabled individuals who cannot work but who do not have enough work quarters to qualify for SSDI. The proof of your disability is the same as in the SSDI program. SSI is different from Social Security Disability Insurance as it pays benefits based on financial need, not work history. SSI benefits are available if you have limited income and resources, and:
You are 65 and older, or
You are blind or disabled, or
You have children who are blind or disabled.
You can apply for benefits with the online disability application (www.ssa.gov) or at your local SSA office, and you do not need an attorney at the initial application level.
It is important to understand that you may be denied SSI because you have an asset or income issue. If you feel this is not an accurate reflection of your income or assets, contact Mary Collins, Downers Grove disability attorney right away.
A Personal and Caring Law Firm
Mary L. Collins understands the struggles that individuals with disabilities face in their daily lives, and she gets to know each of her clients on a personal level. If you cannot work because of a disability, it is your right to pursue all available avenues in order to live the best quality of life possible. If you were denied benefits at the initial application level or if you need to request a hearing, contact Downers Grove disability attorney Mary L. Collins to schedule a free consultation. If you cannot travel to her office due to physical limitations, she will do her best to make accommodations for you. Serving the counties of DuPage, Cook, Kane, Kendall and Will, there is no charge unless your claim is successful.
