Michigan SSI Lawyer: Help With Supplemental Security Income Claims
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a needs-based program that pays monthly benefits to adults and children with disabilities who have limited income and resources. Unlike SSDI, SSI does not require a work history. The Law Office of Rachel M. Pinch helps people throughout Michigan apply for SSI, appeal denials, and prepare for hearings, with no attorney fee unless you win.
Call (248) 244-3900 or request a free consultation.
Who qualifies for SSI?
To qualify for SSI based on disability, you generally need:
A physical or mental condition that prevents you from working, expected to last at least 12 months or result in death
Limited monthly income, based on Social Security's income rules
Limited resources. The limit is $2,000 in countable resources for an individual and $3,000 for a couple. Your home and, in most cases, one vehicle do not count.
Children under 18 can also qualify for SSI. For a child, Social Security considers part of the parents' income and resources along with the child's medical condition.
SSI vs. SSDI: what is the difference?
SSDI is based on your work history and the Social Security taxes you paid. Your income and savings do not affect eligibility.
SSI is based on financial need. You do not need work credits, but income and resource limits apply.
Waiting period: SSDI has a 5-month waiting period. SSI does not.
Health coverage: In Michigan, SSI recipients are automatically eligible for Medicaid. SSDI leads to Medicare, generally after 24 months.
Some people qualify for both programs at the same time. Learn more about SSDI.
What SSI benefits include
A monthly payment set by the federal benefit rate, reduced by certain other income
Michigan state supplement in some living situations, administered by Social Security
Medicaid coverage in Michigan, with no separate application needed in most cases
Back pay going back to the month after you applied
How we help with your SSI claim
SSI claims involve both medical evidence and financial rules, and small mistakes can lead to a denial. When you work with our office, we:
Help you complete your application thoroughly and accurately
Gather and submit medical records that show how your condition limits you
Follow up with Social Security so your claim keeps moving
File appeals within the 60-day deadline if your claim is denied
Prepare you for your hearing and attend it with you if one is needed
We work with clients all over Michigan by phone, so there is no need to travel to our Berkley office.
What does an SSI lawyer cost?
Nothing up front. Our fee is contingency based: 25% of your past-due benefits (back pay), capped at the maximum set by the Social Security Administration, currently $9,200. The fee is paid out of your back pay, and there is no attorney fee if we do not win your case.
SSI questions we hear often
Do I need a work history to get SSI?
No. SSI is based on disability and financial need, not on the taxes you paid. That makes it an option for people who have not worked enough to qualify for SSDI.
Is there a waiting period for SSI?
No. Unlike SSDI, SSI has no 5-month waiting period. If you are approved, benefits can begin the month after you applied.
Can my child get SSI?
Yes. Children under 18 with a qualifying disability can receive SSI if the household meets the income and resource rules. Social Security counts part of the parents' income and resources when deciding a child's claim.
Is SSI taxable?
No. SSI payments are not taxable, which is why SSI-only recipients do not receive an SSA-1099 form.
Talk with a Michigan SSI lawyer today
Call (248) 244-3900 or book a free consultation. If your claim was denied, learn about your appeal options, or read our disability claim FAQs.