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Easter & DeVore – Knoxville’s Trusted Supplemental Security Income Attorneys

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Attorney in Knoxville, TN

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) written on a paper

If you are living with a disability and experience financial difficulties due to low income and limited resources, you may be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. At Easter & DeVore in Knoxville, Tennessee, our team can help you apply for and receive these benefits through the Social Security Administration. We understand that navigating the complex federal benefits system can be challenging, especially if you have a serious health condition.

Our dedicated team is committed to helping you understand the process and providing the necessary strategic advocacy to build a strong case for SSI benefits. These benefits can play a crucial role in your financial stability, and we are committed to guiding you every step of the way from the initial application to the final decision, ensuring that you have access to the assistance needed to lead a fulfilling life.

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    What Is Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?

    SSI is a federal assistance program that helps people who are disabled, blind, or aged 65 and older, and have limited income and resources. Unlike Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), which is based on work history, SSI is based on need. It is funded by general tax revenue and provides assistance for basic necessities like food, clothing, and shelter.

    This difference in funding and eligibility is important, as it means that SSI was designed to provide a safety net for those who need it. Because SSI is government-funded, there are strict financial and medical eligibility requirements. Understanding these rules can be difficult for many people. The intricate interplay between financial and medical criteria can be challenging, but it is essential to ensure that the program provides assistance to those who truly need it.

    To qualify for SSI, you must meet the following criteria:

    • Have a qualifying disability, be blind, or be age 65 or older
    • Have limited income and resources (generally no more than $2,000 for individuals or $3,000 for couples)
    • Be a U.S. citizen or meet certain immigration requirements

    Understanding the complex definitions of “income” and “resources” can be challenging. Skilled guidance is essential to navigating these definitions. The Social Security Administration (SSA) counts not only wages, but also “in-kind” support such as free food or shelter provided by a family member.

    Resources include cash, bank accounts, stocks, and most property you own, except for your primary home, one vehicle, and certain exempt assets. An attorney can help you structure your finances within legal limits and advise you on how gifts or family support may affect your eligibility.

    • Devin’s office has been a lifeline at the most challenging time of my life and has provided the best practices in facilitating my SSDI claim with urgency and compassion.

      Matthew


    Read More Testimonials From Our Clients!

    Establishing Disability for SSI

    The medical eligibility criteria for SSI are similar to those for SSDI. To be eligible, you must have a medical condition that prevents you from working for at least 12 months or results in death. The SSA evaluates your ability to engage in any kind of significant gainful activity using a rigorous five-step process. This process begins by determining whether you are currently engaged in SGA.

    If not, the SSA then determines if your condition is severe and meets one of the official “Blue Book” listings for disabling conditions. If it doesn’t, they look at your residual functional capacity – what you can still do despite your limitations – and whether you can adapt to other types of work.

    Qualifying conditions can include:

    • Mental health disorders such as depression or anxiety
    • Developmental disabilities
    • Neurological conditions like epilepsy or cerebral palsy
    • Chronic illnesses or physical impairments

    It is important to note that a diagnosis alone is not sufficient. The Social Security Administration (SSA) requires comprehensive, long-term evidence that details the severity and impact of your condition on your ability to function. Gaps in your treatment history or a lack of specialized documentation can significantly weaken your claim.

    Our attorney can help you gather all the necessary medical records, assessments, and other documents to show that your condition meets the SSA’s definition of disability. We work closely with your healthcare providers to ensure that their statements and clinical notes clearly demonstrate the specific limitations you experience, such as difficulty sitting for extended periods, following complex instructions, or interacting appropriately with supervisors, as the SSA would expect.

    Applying for SSI Benefits

    The SSI application process can be complicated and time-consuming, and many claims are initially rejected due to incomplete forms, insufficient evidence, or procedural mistakes. Statistics from the Social Security Administration (SSA) show that a significant number of initial applications are rejected, often due to technical or evidentiary issues rather than a lack of eligibility. This emphasizes the importance of the initial submission, as a well-prepared and well-documented application can help prevent months or years of stressful appeal processes.

    At Easter & DeVore, we assist clients with:

    • Preparing and submitting the initial SSI application
    • Collecting and organizing supporting medical and financial documents
    • Responding to requests for additional information from the SSA
    • Filing appeals if your application is denied

    If your claim is denied, we can represent you through the appeals process, including requests for reconsideration, hearings before an administrative law judge, and further appeals if necessary.

    Ongoing Eligibility and Overpayments

    After being approved for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must continue to meet the income and asset limits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) may periodically conduct Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs) or financial assessments to confirm your continued eligibility. These reviews can occur every few years, depending on the severity of your disability. A “medical improvement” standard is used, and we can assist you in preparing for these reviews in order to maintain your benefits. If your circumstances change, such as if you attempt to return to work or receive an inheritance, you must notify the SSA as it may affect your benefit amount or eligibility.

    One of the most difficult situations that beneficiaries may face is receiving an overpayment notice from the Social Security Administration (SSA). This notice indicates that the SSA has overpaid them and requires repayment of the excess, which can amount to thousands of dollars. Overpayments can occur due to various reasons, including errors on the part of SSA, unreported changes in circumstances or misunderstandings regarding reporting rules.

    If SSA believes you have been overpaid, it may try to recover funds by reducing monthly benefit payments or suspending them altogether. We can assist in navigating these situations by responding to overpayments, exploring options such as applying for a waiver if overpayment was not your fault, causing financial difficulty, and negotiating a reasonable payment plan.

    • I just want to say Mr.DeVore and his team done a marvelous job at getting my disability and it was done in a timely manner words can’t say how much I appreciate them I highly recommend them to everyone what amazing job and well done thank you all so much.

      Angela

    Why Choose Easter & DeVore for Your SSI Claim in Knoxville?

    Choosing the right lawyer can make a significant difference between a denied claim and secured financial support. Easter & Devore specializes in disability law, having a deep understanding of both federal regulations and local procedural nuances at Social Security Administration offices in Knoxville and East Tennessee.

    We are not a large law firm and take the time to understand each client’s unique situation and story, supporting our compassionate approach with thorough preparation and legal expertise. We handle all paperwork, evidence gathering and legal arguments allowing you to focus on your health and recovery.

    Learn More About Social Security Disability

    Contact Easter & DeVore

    If you are disabled or have limited financial means and need help applying for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) in the Knoxville, TN area, turn to Easter & DeVore for compassionate and experienced legal support. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and begin your path toward securing the benefits you need.

    Common Supplemental Security Income FAQ

    What is the difference between SSI and SSDI?

    Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a needs-based program for disabled, blind, or elderly individuals with very limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is based on your prior work credits and payroll tax contributions. Our attorneys can help determine which program you may qualify for.

    How do I know if I qualify for SSI benefits?

    To qualify, you must have a disabling condition expected to last over a year, be a U.S. citizen (or meet specific non-citizen rules), and have limited resources (generally under $2,000 for an individual) and income. We offer free case evaluations to assess your specific situation and eligibility.

    Why was my SSI application denied?

    Initial denials are common, often due to incomplete medical evidence, technical errors in the application, or the SSA disputing the severity of your disability. Don’t be discouraged. We specialize in identifying the reason for denial and building a strong appeal.

    What does an SSI attorney do for my case?

    We handle the entire process: completing and submitting applications, gathering comprehensive medical and financial evidence, communicating with the SSA, and representing you at all appeal stages, including hearings. Our goal is to build the strongest possible case for approval.

    How much does it cost to hire your firm for SSI help?

    We work on a contingency fee basis for disability cases, meaning there are no upfront costs. Our fee is only a percentage of your past-due benefits awarded by the SSA, and it must be approved by the agency. You pay nothing if we don’t win your case.

    What if the SSA says I was overpaid?

    An overpayment notice can be frightening, but you have rights. We can help you understand why it happened, request a waiver, or appeal the decision. Options like a repayment plan may also be available to reduce financial hardship.

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