How to Get Your SSI Disability Faster

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a cash assistance program intended for the elderly, 65 or older, and people with a physical or mental disability. Eligibility is based on financial need. SSI is the sole source of income for many people who are unable to work because of a physical or mental disability. To receive SSI, you much file an application with supporting medical evidence. The application will be evaluated and a decision will be made concerning the applicant's eligibility and needs. The process can be lengthy. However, approaching the application process in an intelligent manner helps to speed it up, and you'll get your disability money faster.

Instructions

• 1

  Submit all your medical records and medical history with your application. Processing the medical history of applicants is the most time-consuming part of processing new applicants. Including all the relevant details, especially the most recent medical information, helps to speed up the evaluation process.

• 2

  Make periodic status calls about your case. Calling the state agency that handling your application raises the profile of your application and motivates the agency to process it more quickly.

• 3

  Talk to a professional Social Security Disability Advocate. Professional advocates will help you with your application and make arguments for your claim. Advocates can speed up the process.

• 4

  Set up a direct deposit at your bank for your SSI disability check. Once you have received a decision in your favor, having your SSI check directly deposited gives provides the quickest route to your money. This is especially true around holidays, when the mail is slower.

• 5

  Appeal a negative decision and write a dire letter of need to the Office of Hearings and Appeals (OHA). If you are turned down for SSI benefits, an appeal process allows you plead your case. Inform the OHA that you are in dire straits and in jeopardy of not being able to afford medication, that you are in danger of eviction or of having utilities turned off. Include the appropriate documentation in the letter that supports your case.