SSI stands for Supplemental Security Income. It is a government benefits program that provides financial assistance to people with limited income and resources who are disabled, blind, or 65 years of age or older. If you are interested in this program, there are a few things you should know before you apply for SSI in Halifax.
First, SSI is a needs-based program, which means that only those with limited income and resources are eligible for benefits. For instance, an applicant’s “countable assets” must not exceed $2,000 for an individual or $3,000 for a couple.
Countable assets include cash, bank accounts, stocks, and bonds. Real property such as a home generally is not counted. If an SSI recipient owns a car, the car usually is not counted as an asset if it is used for transportation. Social Security also may consider whether the SSI recipient has other sources of income and whether he or she lives with other people who could help with support.
Additionally, SSI benefits are contingent on your disability. In order to qualify for benefits, you must be able to provide documentation from a medical professional attesting to the severity of your condition.
This documentation must show that you meet the program’s definition of disability, which is based on the inability to engage in any substantial gainful activity (SGA) due to a physical or mental impairment that is expected to result in death or has lasted or is expected to last for a continuous period of at least 12 months.
If you think you may be eligible for SSI benefits, the best way to find out is to contact the Cunningham Law Group, a Halifax legal office that practices Social Security law. Visit Cunningham Law Group to request a consultation today.
