Principal Attorney
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits are designed to help people with limited income and assets. You must meet strict financial limits to qualify for these benefits. Specifically, individuals can have no more than $2,000, and couples can have no more than $3,000 in countable resources. Countable resources include things like cash, bank accounts, and income from pensions or other benefits. Certain resources do not count, such as the house you live in, one car, and some retirement accounts. If Social Security decides that your total income or resources exceed these federal limits, it could deny your SSI claim.
How California-Specific Rules Affect SSI Eligibility
If you live in California, some additional considerations will apply to your SSI claim. First, California provides a State Supplementary Payment (SSP), which is an extra monthly benefit that you receive automatically if you qualify for SSI. Second, California’s community property laws consider all assets owned by married spouses as “community property.” Social Security counts this community property toward your resource limits, even if your spouse does not apply with you. This can lead to a denial if your combined resources exceed the cap.
Common Reasons for Financial-Eligibility Denials
Many SSI applicants run into problems with financial eligibility before their cases ever reach the medical side of the review. Common reasons for financial eligibility denials include:
- Excess Resources: Social Security counts wages, pensions, or other regular income toward your assets. If the total goes over certain limits, your claim will be denied.
- Spousal Assets: In California, part of your spouse’s income or assets may be counted toward your own resources, which can put you over the limit.
- Exclusion Issues: Some resources, like the home you live in, are excluded from your assets. You could face a denial if you lack proof that an item should be excluded.
- Errors in Financial Records: Incomplete or incorrect financial documents might lead Social Security to conclude that your resources are greater than they really are.
- Living Arrangement Factors: If you live with others who provide food or shelter, Social Security might think you’re receiving too much support and reduce or deny your claim.
The SSI Appeals Process
If Social Security denies your SSI application for financial reasons, you can challenge the decision through the appeals process. This process involves several levels of review, each with its own strict requirements and tight deadlines. If you miss a single filing date, you could lose your chance to continue with your claim. The appeals process is formal and highly technical, so many people struggle to present the right evidence or arguments on their own. An attorney can review your denial letter, prepare the necessary paperwork, and represent you during your appeal. With the right legal support, you can keep your case on track and increase your chances of getting SSI benefits.
Evidence That Could Strengthen Your Appeal
A strong appeal often depends on the documents you provide. The following types of evidence can correct mistakes, prove exclusions, and show that you meet the financial rules for SSI:
- Bank statements that confirm balances and show transaction history
- Property documentation to prove asset ownership and value
- Documents showing why items like your home should count as exclusions
- Spousal property records that separate community property from individual assets
- Pay stubs, pension statements, and tax returns to clarify your true income
How a Lawyer Can Help With Your SSI Appeal
If Social Security denies your SSI claim for financial reasons, a lawyer can help you gather the right evidence, meet strict deadlines, and improve your odds of success. Disability Advocates Group helps Californians challenge SSI denials and pursue the benefits they need. Contact us today for your free consultation to learn how our team can assist with your appeal.
