Noteboom The Law Firm

SSI Payments

Most people like to plan their finances in as much advance as possible. If this describes you, your curiosity about how much money you might be getting if you qualify for SSI is understandable. However, it is usually difficult to get a straight answer because some states distribute benefits differently than others. Getting at least an idea of what you might receive might be helpful before you talk to your lawyer.

Supplemental Security Income, or SSI, is made up of a flat payment across the country. Your particular situation is not taken into account when it comes to calculating federal benefits. As long as you meet the income requirements of not having more than $2000 in assets, or more than $3000 between you and your spouse, you will get the same payment as anyone else taking SSI.

The basic payment for January 2009 is $674 per month, up from $637 per month last year. For couples, the monthly check is $1,011, compared to 2008's $956. Some states add in extra benefits, whether they include more money or increased assistance from the state. Such areas include California, Vermont, Hawaii, Washington, D.C., Rhode Island, Pennsylvania, Nevada, Massachusetts, New York, and New Jersey.

The benefits vary from state to state, For example. California offers disabled and aged singles $850 rather than $674, while couples living on their own can get nearly $1500. Recipients who are blind or living with someone else will get a different amount, but none can receive food stamps. On the other hand, Hawaii and Pennsylvania offer supplemental services like food stamps, as well as varying amounts depending on living situations. In general, the states listed above offer about $30 to $175 more than the basic payment, plus other services.

In general, if you live in someone else's household, you can expect to receive about $450 for a single person, which is less than the basic payment. Living in a private facility will often net you more money per month since your costs are typically higher. Checking with the Social Security Administration or a lawyer may help you find out what benefits you are entitled to in your state. 

Fort Lauderdale, Florida disability lawyers, LaVan & Neidenberg, represent over 5000 disability claimants. Our disability attorneys have experience with cross examining agency-appointed medical and vocational experts and take time when speaking with you about your disability claim. Call us today at 1-888-234-5758 for a FREE legal consultation. There is NO OBLIGATION to hire our firm and there are NO FEES unless one of our trained disability lawyers wins your case.