Success getting SSI?

Post Reply New Topic

I applied for SSI and am currently awaiting my hearing date. My lawyer warned me that I have an extremely low chance of securing benefits because I take college classes (even though I only can handle a couple per semester) and because I work (less than ten hours per week). He is concerned the SSA will assume that because I can be productive for a portion of the week that I can fully support myself; my medical records, however, demonstrate a history of decompensation whenever I attempt to take on more coursework and/or more hours at work. While my lawyer didn't directly tell me to to stop working or stop taking classes, he implied that it would be wise for me to cut back (even though part-time employment does not technically disqualify one from receiving SSI). Has anyone here successfully obtained benefits? If so, were you not involved with coursework or employment at your time of applying? Was anyone able to receive benefits while they were employed and/or a student?

Any tips for winning the case?

Why would you need SSI if you're working?

I need SSI because my attempts at working a significant amount of hours has resulted in mental breakdowns. I am currently working 10 hours a week or less, and that is not enough money to sustain myself. My history of losing jobs furthermore means I need a reliable income. I am unable to meet productivity standards of my positions--even with accommodations, extra training, etc.--and am consequently let go.

Can you show copies of your tax returns, paycheck stubs or financial-account deposits which collective would show a decrease in the number of hours you have worked over the years? If you can show a downward trend in the number of hours you can work with detrimental effects to your career or yourself, that might help you prove your case. Otherwise, I would emphasize that, while your limited work hours as they are currently aren't enough to survive financially. But, when you do increase your work hours, your ability and quality of your work suffers. Lead the SSA along the path that you are between a rock and a hard place.

Also, has your lawyer explained how every dollar over $85 a month that you earn or receive as cash gifts while receiving SSI benefits reduces the amount of your benefits? If not, you might want to discuss with your lawyer what the break-even point would be in your financial life where you might need to work more or less than you do to receive the maximum amount of benefits.

Good luck.