Navigating the complexities of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Medicaid/Medi-Cal can often be overwhelming. Understanding the eligibility criteria and application process is crucial for those seeking these benefits.
This guide aims to answer some common questions regarding qualifying for SSI and Medicaid or Medi-Cal, offering clarity on what these programs entail and who can benefit from them. Contact PLBH at (800) 435-7542 if you need help from an employment attorney.
Understanding Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program designed to assist individuals who are older, blind, or disabled and have limited income. Unlike Social Security benefits, SSI is funded through general tax revenues, not Social Security taxes. It aims to provide essential financial assistance for basic needs like housing, food, and clothing.
Who Qualifies for SSI?
Eligibility for SSI is based on several criteria. To qualify, an individual must meet one of the following conditions: be 65 years or older, blind, or disabled. Other requirements include U.S. citizenship or qualifying non-citizen status, limited income and resources, residency in the United States, not being absent from the country for more than 30 consecutive days, and not being confined to an institution.
Defining Blindness for SSI
SSI has specific criteria for blindness. A person is considered blind if their central visual acuity for distance is 20/200 or less in the best eye with correcting lenses or if there is a limitation in the field of vision such that the widest diameter of the visual field subtends an angle no greater than 20 degrees. It’s important to note that individuals with significant visual impairments that do not meet these criteria might still qualify for SSI under the disabled category.
Understanding SSI’s Definition of “Disabled”
SSI’s definition of disabled varies for adults and children. For those aged 18 and older, being disabled means having a medically determinable physical or mental impairment, including emotional or learning issues. This impairment must significantly limit the individual’s ability to engage in substantial gainful activity and be expected to result in death or last continuously for at least 12 months.
The Connection Between SSI and Medi-Cal
In the context of healthcare, qualifying for SSI automatically grants eligibility for Medi-Cal services in full scope, without the need for a separate application process. Medi-Cal provides comprehensive healthcare services, ensuring that recipients of SSI also receive necessary medical care.
Seeking Assistance with SSI and Medicaid/Medi-Cal
The process of applying for SSI and understanding the associated healthcare benefits like Medicaid or Medi-Cal can be complex. For those who are applying for the first time or navigating through the appeals process after a denial, professional legal advice can be invaluable. If you have questions or need assistance with the application or appeals process, a legal consultation can provide the necessary guidance and support. Contact PLBH at (800) 435-7542 to get started.