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SSI Lawyers in Charlotte, North Carolina
When you’re disabled and unable to work, it can be nearly impossible to get proper medical care or meet your basic needs. This is why the Social Security Administration (SSA) provides disabled individuals with financial resources through two disability benefit programs: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
If you’re unable to work due to your disability, you will be eligible for Social Security Disability benefits. This may include SSI if you meet the qualifying criteria and aren’t eligible for SSDI. Supplemental Security Income is awarded to individuals who are blind, disabled, or over the age of 65.
If you’re looking to apply for SSI in Charlotte, NC, contact the legal team at Disability Attorney Services today. We have decades of experience helping disabled individuals just like you get the benefits they need. We can help you properly file a claim or file an appeal if your initial application has been denied.
What is Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?
Supplemental Security Income is a federal benefits program funded by the United States Treasury. These benefits fall under Title XVI of the Social Security Act.
SSI benefits are intended for individuals who don’t qualify for coverage under Title II for Social Security Disability Insurance.
Who Can Qualify for SSI?
To qualify for SSI, you must be disabled, blind, or 65 years of age or older. SSI benefits are paid to individuals who are unable to participate in Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) due to such limitations.
SSI is a needs-based program, which means it is only awarded to individuals with extremely limited income and resources. These resources may include things such as inheritance money, stocks, bonds, property, and other sources of income or potential income.
Who Applies for SSI?
Individuals without substantial work history, and therefore work credits, who cannot qualify for SSDI apply for SSI. SSI is designed to support individuals who have never worked or have not worked enough in their lifetime to receive SSDI. You’re only eligible for SSDI if you have paid into the Social Security System by paying payroll taxes throughout your life.
How to Apply for SSI
If you’re planning to apply for SSI disability in Charlotte, NC, it’s important to contact a qualified attorney. Applying for disability benefits can be overwhelming and confusing if you’re unfamiliar with the process.
Filing a claim involves completing various forms, gathering medical evidence, submitting specific documents, and may even involve a subsequent appeal. While you can go through the claims process independently, most initial disability claims are denied. An experienced Social Security Disability lawyer can increase your chances of receiving benefits.
If you need to file for SSI, reach out to our disability attorneys in Charlotte, NC, today.
Qualifying As Disabled
To qualify for SSI with a disability, you’ll have to prove you meet the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) definition of disabled. This means you must present evidence to the SSA that accomplishes the following:
- Supports the claim stating your disability prevents you from taking part in SGA
- Supports the claim stating your disability or disabilities have lasted or are expected to last for at least 12 months OR result in death
- Supports the claim stating your disability meets the criteria of one or more qualifying conditions in the Blue Book
The SSA uses the Blue Book to review individual disability claims. It consists of listings of impairments that qualify claimants for disability benefits.
If your condition is not listed in the Blue Book, you can still qualify for benefits if your impairment meets or exceeds the criteria of an existing listing.
Charlotte Location
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6000 Fairview Rd, South Park Towers,
Suite 1200 Charlotte, NC 28210 - Phone: (888) 683-8437
- Fax: (980) 277-5154
Asheville Location
- 28 Schenck Parkway Asheville, NC 28803
- Phone: (888) 683-8437
- Fax: (980) 277-5154
Hours of Operation
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Mon - Fri: 9 AM - 5 PM
Sat - Sun: Closed
Blue Book Listings
As stated, the impairment listings in the Blue Book are medical conditions that qualify claimants for benefits. The Adult Listings section in the Blue Book includes:
- Musculoskeletal Disorders
- Special Senses and Speech
- Respiratory Disorders
- Cardiovascular System
- Digestive System
- Genitourinary Disorders
- Hematological Disorders
- Skin Disorders
- Endocrine Disorders
- Congenital Disorders
- Neurological Disorders
- Mental Disorders
- Cancer (Malignant Neoplastic Diseases)
- Immune System Disorders
SSA's Disability Criteria
To meet the SSA’s definition of disability, the following criteria must also be satisfied:
- The disability is a medically determinable physical or mental impairment (or combination of impairments)
- The impairment(s) results in severe functional limitations (this can include learning difficulties and emotional problems)
It can be difficult to understand the eligibility requirements to receive disability benefits. Fortunately, our attorneys are here to help you through the process. Contact us for SSI claim assistance in Charlotte, NC today.
Charlotte Location
-
6000 Fairview Rd, South Park Towers,
Suite 1200 Charlotte, NC 28210 - Phone: (888) 683-8437
- Fax: (980) 277-5154
Asheville Location
- 28 Schenck Parkway Asheville, NC 28803
- Phone: (888) 683-8437
- Fax: (980) 277-5154
Hours of Operation
-
Mon - Fri: 9 AM - 5 PM
Sat - Sun: Closed
Applying for SSI – Blindness
The following conditions each describe the SSA’s definition of “blindness”:
- Central visual acuity for distance of 20/200 or less in one eye with use of a correcting lens
- OR a visual field limitation in one eye such that the widest diameter of the visual field subtends an angle no greater than 20 degrees
If an individual qualifies as blind, they may be eligible for SSI. Blindness is subject to the same duration requirements as other disabilities.
Applying for SSI – Age 65 & Over
If you are considered “aged” and have limited income and resources, you may qualify for SSI. The SSA’s definition of “aged” is someone who is 65 years old or older.
SSI for Mental Health Conditions
Just as you can receive SSDI for mental health conditions, you can also receive SSI.
Millions of people rely on Social Security Disability benefits, many of whom are suffering from one or more mental health disorders. These impairments often prevent individuals from engaging in SGA.
Why Choose Us – Disability Attorney Services in Charlotte, NC
At Disability Attorney Services, you will receive legal assistance from lawyers who care about your wellbeing. That means we take time to work personally with you while filing your SSI claim. We are experienced in dealing with the Social Security Administration and always bring valuable insights to the table.
We intimately understand the inner workings of the Social Security System and the criteria employed during claim assessment. We respect the significance of accurate form submissions and adhering to strict deadlines. We also fully understand the pertinence of providing accurate, substantial medical evidence to the SSA.
We are board certified by the National Organization of Social Security Claimants’ Representatives (NOSSCR). NOSSCR advocates for the rights of Americans with disabilities. This certification speaks to our client dedication and Social Security Disability law education.
If you’re searching for board certified Social Security Disability attorneys who will protect your best interests, contact Disability Attorney Services. We have provided superior legal assistance to disability claimants and SSI recipients throughout North Carolina for decades.
Whether you’re struggling to file a claim, an appeal, or obtain long term disability in Charlotte, NC, we can help! Call our law firm at (888) 683-8437 to request a free consultation.
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