Applying For Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Benefits In Ohio

Founded in 1981, Robert J. Dodd Jr., Co., L.P.A., located in New Lexington, has been helping applicants throughout Ohio secure Social Security Disability benefits for decades. With more than 25 years of experience herself, lead Social Security Disability attorney Maureen Dodd, continues the firm’s legacy to help others secure the benefits they qualify for under state and federal laws and programs.

For a free consultation, please call us at 740-693-1208 or complete our contact form. We are here to help.

Eligibility For Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD) is a state agency which assists the SSA in processing applications for SSDI and SSI.

The Division of Disability Determination (DDD) is federally regulated and is fully funded by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to help determine SSA disability eligibility for Ohio applicants. The DDD will help make a determination regarding the applicant’s medical condition, to ensure that it qualifies as a disability under the SSA’s strict definition of disability. Because SSI differs from SSDI in that it is need-based financial assistance, the DDD also helps assess the income of applicants to ensure there is appropriate financial need.

Medical Conditions That Qualify As Disabilities In Ohio

The SSA and the DDD apply a strict definition of disability when considering applications for SSI Disability assistance. In the state of Ohio, there are several different medical conditions that may qualify for SSI assistance, including:

• Terminal illness, like cancer
• Respiratory illnesses, kidney and liver diseases, immune system disorders and heart conditions or failures
• Neurological disorders, like epilepsy, cerebral palsy, Alzheimer’s, dementia or Parkinson’s disease
• Behavior and developmental disorders, like autism, ADHD, ODD
• Mental disorders, like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, anxiety and depression

In order to apply for SSI assistance in Ohio, there must be a medical diagnosis of the condition, supported by medical evidence. Depending on the disability, its severity and seriousness, more or less supporting evidence may be required. For example, a serious and terminal cancer diagnosis will not need as much supporting evidence as an application based on back pain.

Income Requirements And Resource Limits For SSI In Ohio

In order to qualify for SSI disability assistance, the DDD and SSA will analyze the resources available to you (like your home or car) within your specific living situation (by taking into consideration the other members of your household. The DDD will also calculate “countable” income. Countable income includes both earned and unearned income.

Call Today For Help Understanding SSI Benefit Requirements In Ohio

At Robert J. Dodd Jr., Co., L.P.A., we understand how confusing the application process for SSI Disability benefits is and how overwhelming it is to apply for benefits. Call our office at 740-693-1208 or send us an email to set up a free consultation.