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If you cannot work due to a disability, there is a possibility you could be eligible to receive monthly benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA) under the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program. Though, it is important to note that the SSI program requires you to affirmatively prove that you meet the definition of having a “disability.”
Disability Defined Under the SSI Program
To be eligible for SSI benefits, an assessment will be conducted of your assets and income. Generally speaking, individuals who would be eligible for SSI benefits only have limited assets and income. The determination of whether you qualify for SSI benefits based on your assets and income is a complex process. This is why it makes sense to retain the services of an experienced New Jersey SSI lawyer. When you have an SSI attorney on your side, they can proactively work with you to help understand your rights and whether you can reasonably expect to receive benefits under the SSI program.
At Bross & Frankel, our team of SSI benefit lawyers regularly work with individuals with disabilities to help them apply for or appeal denials of disability benefits. We possess decades of experience and have helped numerous clients get access to much-needed financial benefits under the SSI program. To learn more or to schedule a free claim review, reach out to our disability benefits law firm today.
Why SSI Has Income Limits
The reason SSA conducts an analysis of your income and assets is because SSI is a needs-based program. Basically, this means that you need to show that you fall within the strict limits for assets and income set by the SSA (in addition to meeting the definition of being disabled).
The formula for assessing earned income can be complex. Generally speaking, an individual is limited to earning up to $1,913 per month to be eligible for SSI benefits. It is worth noting that some types of income do not count for the purposes of assessing SSI eligibility, including:
- Income tax refunds
- Home energy assistance
- Food stamp benefits
- Small amounts of income you may earn irregularly or infrequently.
Asset Limits for SSI Benefits
In addition to income limits, the SSA sets asset limits for prospective SSI applicants. Generally speaking, to be eligible for SSI benefits, your assets cannot exceed $2,000 for an individual or $3,000 for a married couple.
Determine If You Qualify for SSI Benefits
The rules pertaining to SSI income limits can be incredibly complex and challenging for many people to understand – particularly when you are already dealing with doctor’s appointments, therapy, and other issues related to your disability.
If you are unsure whether you qualify for SSI benefits, speak to an experienced New Jersey SSI lawyer for a free claim review. Our disability benefits law firm can help you determine if you may qualify for SSI and/or SSDI benefits based on your medical or mental health condition, work history, assets, and income.
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