Noteboom The Law Firm

CA SSI System Could Improve with More Oversight

You likely know by now that most California recipients of SSI are struggling. If they have managed to receive a decision at all, they have typically found that the benefits of Supplemental Security Income are not enough to pay for their monthly bills. Many are even homeless, relying on shelters to have a roof over their head at night.

According to Capital Public Radio, part of the problem could be that the state's Department of Social Services, which is in charge of the SSI program for California, keeps little track of who gets the money and how it is spent. While it is not necessarily the responsibility of the state to tell recipients how to spend the SSI benefits, it has been found that a disturbing number of people use it to purchase drugs and alcohol.

Of course, there are also plenty of people who spend it only on food, housing, and bills, and find that it is not enough. Many people have questioned why the state has not taken a closer look at the program to find out if the average recipient can live on their monthly checks. The two cuts to checks in 2008 have definitely not helped, either.

In fact, it has been found that the average check amount is not even enough to rent a one-bedroom apartment in many areas of California. One proposed change is that program directors look into providing food stamps for eligible SSI recipients. Currently, the state does not allow them to receive food stamps, though most meet the requirements. This could allow people to save hundreds of dollars each month, but of course it would cost the state more money to initiate the program.

Others propose that the program have more oversight in general. Taking a closer look at the SSI system could implement positive change, or at least let officials know that another cut in check amounts could devastate the already struggling SSI recipients.

If you or your loved one are suffering from a severe physical or mental disability, you should contact a Social Security Disability lawyer immediately to learn about your rights and determine eligibility. The process of securing Social Security Disability Insurance benefits and/or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) can be difficult and overwhelming. Don't go it alone! The disability lawyers at LaVan & Neidenberg, located in Ft. Lauderdale, FL understand the inner workings of the Social Security Administration and will help you navigate the system. Call us today for a FREE legal consultation - 1-888-234-5758.