TAKE ACTION: Tell Social Security Not to Create Additional Burdens for People with Disabilities!

NEW: Everything you need to know about this harmful proposed rule The Social Security Administration just announced that it wants to change its rules for people who get disability benefits, including SSI.  Most people would have to prove disability every two years. If Social Security moves forward with this proposal more than two million people will…

SSI: How to Appeal and How to Apply (in 11 languages)

Learn how to apply for SSI and appeal if your application is denied. In 11 languages. English Should I Apply for SSI? What Should I Do If I Get Turned Down for SSI? Español (Spanish) (¿Debería solicitar el SSI? ¿Qué debo hacer si me rechazan la solicitud del SSI? 中文 (Simplified Chinese) 我是否应该申请补充社会安全金 (SSI)?如果我申请补充社会安全金 (SSI)被拒绝,该怎么办? Tiếng…

IMPACT: Continuity of Care

Sarah, 24, first came to CLS as a child. She was diagnosed with a severe case of sickle cell anemia at a young age. Sarah qualified for SSI (Supplementary Security Income), and her CLS attorney helped win her case when she was three years old. The SSI support helped Sarah get the medical attention she needed to stay healthy throughout her childhood.By the time Sarah turned 18, her condition had improved, so she dropped her SSI case. She was even able to pursue a nursing degree while working part time. However, her health suddenly worsened, and she was often in and out of the emergency room. She could not afford the expensive treatments and medicine to help her properly manage her sickle cell anemia, so her flare-ups always became critical.

Youth Justice: SSI Benefits

Billie Washington was struggling to make ends meet. A former home care attendant, she was no longer able to work due to her rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and other illnesses. While waiting for her disability benefits hearing, she began receiving General Assistance. Ms. Washington carefully budgeted the monthly $205.00 to cover her rent, toiletries, medical co-payments, and public transportation to get to doctor’s appointments. When she found out that General Assistance was being eliminated, Ms. Washington felt like she had the rug yanked out from under her. Describing the feeling of desperation, she said, “I was crushed. I just, I didn’t know what I was going to do.”

SSI for Children

What is SSI for children? SSI for children is a cash assistance program for low-income families who are caring for children with physical and/or mental disabilities.   How does the Social Security Administration (SSA) decide if my child is disabled? SSA will look at how severe your child’s medical conditions are and how they interfere…

How to Apply for Social Security Benefits

Community Legal Services does not help people apply for Social Security Benefits.  You can apply for benefits by: Telephone: You can call 1 (800) 772-1213 (between 7 a.m.-7 p.m.) to schedule an appointment to apply for Social Security Benefits. In person: You can also apply for Social Security Benefits by walking in to your local Social Security…

Has Social Security Dismissed Your Case?

What is a Dismissal? A “dismissal” is when Social Security turns down your application, after you appealed it, without actually deciding whether you are disabled.  This often happens if you did not go to a hearing.  If your case is dismissed you must act quickly, within 60 days.   What should I do if I get…