SSI Advocacy
What is SSI Advocacy?
The County of Tulare Health & Human Services Agency (HHSA) established the Supplemental Security Income Advocacy Unit to assist clients with their Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Income (SSDI) applications and/or appeals. The goal of the unit is to assist clients in submitting a thorough and complete application package in order to be determined eligible upon application. The unit accepts clients by internal referrals only, clients may not make self-referrals.
How does SSI help me?
The unit assists clients by:
• Assist in the application for SSI/SSDI.
• Assist the client in completing the application paperwork.
• Evaluating for any interim benefits the client may be eligible for prior to their SSI/SSDI determinations.
• Researching and collecting the client's medical records and comparing the diagnosis with the Social Security Administration's Disabling Conditions to ensure that they meet the appropriate criteria.
• Recommending other medical tests and evaluations that may benefit the client's case.
• Monitoring the status of the SSI/SSDI application and/or appeals process.
• Assisting the client in completing Reconsideration and Hearing Appeals forms.
• Monitoring to ensure that the client completes and files their appeals request within the required time frames.
• Reminding the client of scheduled Social Security Administration (SSA) appointments, evaluations, and hearings.
• Assisting the client in obtaining transportation to required SSA appointments, evaluations, and hearings.
• Preparing a summary of the client's case and medical records for an Administrative Law Judge.
• Provide support to the client Administrative Law Judge hearings.
Who do I call?
Contact the SSI Advocacy Unit at 1-800-269-8910.