Applying for the Supplemental Security Income program is a daunting process. The Social Security Administration can reject your SSI application for a number of reasons.
However, you still have options to have your application decision reconsidered or to argue your case before a judge. You should contact our knowledgeable Michigan SSI appeals lawyers at Thurswell Law to discuss your situation.
Common Reasons SSI Benefits are Denied
In order to qualify for SSI benefits, an applicant must be at least 65 years old or have an eligible disability. Since age is relatively simple to prove, many denials of SSI benefits focus on whether the applicant has a qualifying disability.
Determining whether a disability qualifies for SSI benefits is not always straightforward. Generally, a qualifying disability is a physical or mental impairment that:
- Limits the person’s ability to do any substantial gainful activity or work intended for profit
- Is expected to result in death
- Is expected to last at least 12 months
Some common reasons that the SSA may deny SSI benefits based on the alleged disability include:
- The condition is viewed as short-term
- The applicant failed to provide sufficient medical evidence or documentation
- The disability is solely drug or alcohol addiction
- The applicant failed to follow the doctor’s instructions or guidance on recovery
Additionally, the SSA imposes income and resource caps for an applicant to meet SSI eligibility requirements. Generally, a single person’s monthly income cannot exceed $2,019, and they cannot have more than $2,000 in financial resources, such as bank accounts or stock ownership.
An applicant’s failure to show that they meet the required income or financial resources limits for SSI benefits is also a potential reason for denial. Our Michigan SSI attorneys could consult with a person about the reasons for denial and how to appeal these decisions.
Applicants Have Different Options to Appeal SSI Decisions
The SSA has a multi-level appeals process in place to allow applicants to request a reconsideration of a decision regarding SSI benefits. Once the initial SSI application is filed, the applicant will receive an initial determination.
If this outcome is not favorable, the applicant can first request a reconsideration of the original decision within 60 days. If the request relates to disability reconsideration, a Disability Determination Services examiner will review the request.
When the applicant disagrees with the reconsideration decision, they also have 60 days to request a formal hearing before an administrative law judge. This gives the applicant an opportunity to submit additional evidence or supporting documentation to support their application. Further, the judge can hear from witnesses and medical experts.
If the applicant does not agree with the administrative law judge’s decision, they can ask for review by the SSA Appeals Council within 60 days. The Appeals Council will review the information and evidence evaluated by the administrative law judge but can also decide not to hear the case.
Lastly, the applicant can file a civil action in federal court if they disagree with the Appeals Council’s decision. Since this is a formal legal proceeding, it is best to consult with our SSI appeals lawyers in Michigan.
Reasons to Hire an SSI Attorney During an Appeal
Applicants seeking SSI benefits have the right to legal representation. Prospective applicants can hire legal representation when initially starting the application process.
Hiring a knowledgeable SSI appeals attorney in Michigan can provide a range of benefits, including:
- Helping applicants understand eligibility requirements and potential exceptions
- Helping applicants access information in their social security file
- Assisting applicants with gathering necessary medical documentation to support their case
- Attending formal proceedings, such as interviews and conferences
- Helping applicants navigate the appeals process and meet applicable deadlines
Contact Our Michigan SSI Appeals Attorney
Receiving an unfavorable decision about your SSI application or case is not the end of the road. Our attorneys are here to help you exhaust all options to appeal your case.
Please contact our Michigan SSI appeals lawyer to discuss your situation. We are here to help fight for your SSI benefits inside and outside the courtroom. Call us today at 248-354-2222.
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