Personalized Attention From An

Documentation needed to apply for SSI benefits

On Behalf of | Apr 6, 2017 | Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

When Los Angeles residents are suffering from a disabling injury or illness, they have options and rights. There are specific government programs that are designed to assist those with certain disabilities, and, in some cases, individuals could qualify for more than one program. Even if you are receiving SSD benefits, it is also possible to apply for Supplemental Security Income.

In order to meet the requirements for this benefit, applicants need to submit documents that show that they qualify. This benefit is available to those age 65 or older, those who are blind and those who are disabled and have limited resources. In order to meet these requirements, an applicant will have to prove their age. This can be shown with a public birth record that was recorded before the age of 5, a religious birth record that was recorded before the age of 5 or other documentation that shows the applicant’s date of birth.

An applicant must also prove citizenship or alien status. This is proven by providing a birth certificate that indicates that you were born in the United States, a religious record of birth or baptism showing your place of birth in the U.S., naturalization certificate, U.S. passport or certificate of citizenship. For aliens, applicants may need to show a current immigration document, such as an I-551 or an I-94 arrival record.

Applicants must show proof of income and need to provide documents such as pay stubs, tax returns and work expenses. Proof of resources must also be evidenced and is shown by providing copies of bank statements, deed or tax appraisals for all properties, life or disability insurance policies, burial contracts, stocks and bonds and titles for vehicles.

Additional documentation typically includes proof of living arrangements, medical sources, work history and other pertinent information. While it is of a lot of information to collect, the process to obtain this type of SSD benefit can be lengthy. Therefore, it is important to ensure that it is complete and detailed.

Source: Social Security Administration, “Understanding Supplemental Security Income Documents You May Need When You Apply – 2017 Edition,” accessed April 1, 2017

FindLaw Network

Archives