Taperman articles

Q: Will my children get benefits if I get SSI?

A: When you consult a social security lawyer or apply for Social Security on your own, its important to keep in mind that there are big differences between Social Security Disability and SSI, or Supplemental Security Income. While those that qualify for Social Security Disability may be able to obtain benefits for their children (a social security lawyer can help with the process), those that apply for SSI cannot. Because SSI is considered to be a need based program, dependent benefits are not offered.

With Social Security Disability, however, you may be able to obtain benefits for your minor children. Whether or not your children will receive benefits depends on your earnings records. Not all of those who apply for Social Security Disability qualify for dependants benefits. Those with a short work history may not qualify. Talk to a social security lawyer for details.

Q: Can I still get SSI benefits if I have money in the bank?

A: Any social security lawyer will tell you: because SSI is a need based program, all resources and income will be counted towards qualification. Those that qualify for SSI must earn little money and have few assets. And while every state has a slightly different resource limit for qualifying for SSI, there are a few general guidelines that a social security lawyer will give you when looking over your application.

In general, the following are considered "resources" that count towards your income:

• Cash • Bank Accounts • Stocks and Bonds • Real Estate • Life Insurance • Vehicles • Personal Property

While you may qualify for SSI benefits if you own a car or your own home, having too many resources or too much money in the bank will affect your eligibility. In general you must have less than $2000 in the bank for an individual, or $3000 for a couple, to qualify for SSI. However, you will want to talk to a social security lawyer about the specific requirements for your state.

Q: Will they take away my benefits if I sell my house and make money off of it?

A: The answer to this question will vary from case to case, and it is a good idea to speak with a social security lawyer in this situation. If you sell your home and make a profit, the amount of profit will determine your continued SSI benefits. If the profit from your home takes you over the "allowable value" of your resources at the beginning of the month, you will not be eligible for benefits for that month. If, however, you maintain those "over value" resources in a bank account into the next months, your eligibility for SSI benefits may come into question. If this happens, it is important to speak to a social security lawyer in order to know your next steps.

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