If you qualify for Social Security in Washington, there are certain things you need to be aware of, even after approval. One example of this is the frequency of SSI reviews in Washington and why the SSA may initiate a review. To ensure you understand the SSI benefit review process, it’s always best to work with an SSI lawyer in Spokane, WA. Keep reading to find out how often SSI reviews are done and what you should expect.
What Is an SSI Eligibility Review?
An SSI review, or SSI eligibility verification, is done by the SSA to determine whether or not your disabling condition has continued. The purpose of this is to ensure that everyone receiving SSI actually needs it and continues to have a qualifying disability.
Aside from the standard SSI medical review, there is also a non-medical review, which is called redetermination. A redetermination reviews your assets, income, and living arrangements to ensure you are still SSI eligible and are receiving the right benefit amount.
How Often SSI Reviews Occur
According to the SSA, the frequency of SSI reviews in Washington is once every three years. However, this can depend on the specific medical condition that originally qualified you for SSI.
Here is a breakdown of how the SSA determines when reviews may be necessary on a case by a case basis:
- If medical improvement is expected, your case will usually be reviewed 6 to 18 months after approval.
- If medical improvement is a possibility, a review will usually be done every three years.
- If medical improvement is not expected, your case may be reviewed every seven years.
What Happens During a Review
Although SSI reviews can be intimidating, you will be notified of when the SSA is going to start this process. And your initial benefit award notice should include details regarding when you should expect your first review.
When the review is initiated, you will usually need to provide information in a report going over your health and daily life. You may also need to include additional documentation, such as bank statements or pay stubs, specifically for redeterminations.
Your report will go to Washington’s Disability Determination Services, where an examiner will be assigned to your case and will contact you via phone or in person. Depending on the case, you may need to fill out more forms or attend a medical exam.
After the review has been completed, you will receive the SSA’s decision in the mail.
Even though this process is relatively straightforward, it’s still a good idea to get representation from a Social Security disability law firm, especially if you end up needing to appeal the SSA’s decision.
Get Started With a Top Spokane SSI Attorney Today
It isn’t enough to be approved for SSI; you also need to be prepared to go through the SSI review process in Washington. At Schott Law, our SSI lawyers in Spokane, WA, are committed to helping our clients get the legal assistance they need as they navigate the SSI benefit review process. Contact our Spokane, Washington office today at 509-328-5789 to speak with a disability lawyer about your review.
