Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for SSI

Top Mistakes to Avoid in SSI Applications: Insights for Washington State

Maggie Schott
August 3, 2023

Applying for Supplemental Security Income or SSI in Washington State requires can be a daunting process. But with an attorney reviewing your application, you can boost your chances for approval.

Applying for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), an integral Social Security disability program, requires meticulous attention to detail. This process—particularly for residents in Washington State—can be daunting.

Avoid These Mistakes

To navigate the process successfully and increase the of your disability claim being approved by the Social Security Administration (SSA), you should avoid the following pitfalls:

Incorrect Income Reporting: SSI is intended for individuals with restricted financial means, which means your income and resources should fall under a specific threshold in order to qualify. Oftentimes, applicants fail to report all income streams, including earnings from employment, unemployment benefits, or other Social Security benefits. You should ensure that you disclose all forms of your income accurately.
Misreporting Assets: Alongside income, the SSA considers your assets or resources, encompassing property, vehicles, savings, and investments. Many applicants make the mistake of not including a spouse’s income and assets in their report. This oversight could greatly impact your claim, so it’s crucial to account for all your financial resources.
Insufficient Documentation: The SSA requires substantial medical evidence to prove your disability claim. If you fail to provide necessary documentation, it could lead to denial. Make sure you have current medical records on hand, outlining your diagnosis, treatment protocol, and a physician’s statement about how your disability impacts your daily activities.
Inattentive Application Review: Because many applicants rush to submit their application, they risk overlooking small details that can create significant issues. Make sure you thoroughly review your application for any inconsistencies, misspellings, or incomplete sections before submission.
Misinterpretation of Disability Criteria: Your eligibility for SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) or SSI benefits hinges on the SSA’s strict definition of disability. If your disability does not prevent you from engaging in substantial gainful activity and isn’t expected to last at least a year or lead to death, your application could be rejected. Therefore, it’s best that you fully comprehend these criteria before you apply.
Neglecting Application Status: After filing your application, you should definitely monitor its status as much as you can. Respond promptly to any requests for additional information from the SSA, because delays could lead to your application being dismissed.

How An Attorney Can Help

Engaging a legal expert to review your SSI application can significantly increase your chances of approval. Here are some notable benefits:

Expert Guidance: An attorney who specializes in Social Security disability cases can provide you with advice tailored to your situation, ensuring that you meet the SSA’s strict eligibility criteria.
Thorough Review: An SSI lawyer can spot errors, inconsistencies, or omissions in your application that can lead to delays or even denials of your claim. A meticulous review ensures that your application is accurate and comprehensive.
Documentation Assistance: It can be a daunting task to assemble the necessary medical records to make your case for disability. Your SSI attorney can educate you on the specific documents required, their format, and how you should present them to effectively support your disability claim.
Appeals Support: If your initial application is denied, having a lawyer on your side can be invaluable. They can assist you in appealing the decision, enhancing your chances of eventually securing the benefits you need.

By avoiding common application mistakes and enlisting legal assistance, you can significantly improve your chances of getting the disability benefits you need. The closer you get to presenting a clear, precise picture of your disability and its impact on your life, the more likely your application will be approved.

Working With Schott Law

If you need help making sure your SSDI application is thorough and accurate, Schott Law is here for you. Maggie Schott is an SSDI & SSI lawyer serving Washington and Idaho. Contact us now at (509) 328-5789 to start your application.