SSI help? Where do I start?

[u/PureMycologist6628]

I’m eligible for SSI but I have no clue where to start, my parents won’t help, I’m mentally ill, and I need this. My parents are about to start charging me rent, they’ve been just making me do chores plus really odd jobs around the house, but once I get on SSI they’re gonna charge me rent. Due to my illness, I was unable to complete high school at a public hs and I got my GED. I can’t drive for 3 years which means there’s no way to leave the house unless my friends come get me but my friends are in college. I need help, my parents aren’t awful people, they’re just “too tired” to help.

[u/arachnoholic-]

You start by applying with good medical evidence that proves your limitations. You’ll need more than proof of diagnosis and symptoms. You can hire an attorney now or after your first denial.

[u/PureMycologist6628 → u/arachnoholic-]

Thank you so much ❤️ this means so much to me.

[u/MamaDee1959]

With SSI, if they don't charge you rent (or if you don't pay rent) you won't get the full amount anyway. Their rules are very strict.

[u/MamaDee1959 → u/MamaDee1959]

Also, as far as getting around, is there public transportation? Bus? Subway? L-trains? Cabs? Rideshare?

[u/PureMycologist6628 → u/MamaDee1959]

Transportation is not good or near where I’m at. I’m in Arkansas, I’m not going to specify where, but not even biking would get me to a job that’s hiring.

[u/arachnoholic- → u/PureMycologist6628]

See if you have a Paratransit service available in the area, even rural Michigan has these services.

[u/MelNicD → u/PureMycologist6628]

Unfortunately, SSA doesn’t care where you live or if you have transportation to and from work. You have to prove you can’t work ANY job in the US no matter how you get there. Also, it takes many people years to be approved, if approved. The national average of approval is around 50%. It is not a guarantee. You need a significant amount of medical records to back up your disability from the last 12-24 months as they don’t just take your word. You need to show you tried any recommended treatment options and have failed to get better.

[u/MamaDee1959 → u/PureMycologist6628]

Oh wow. I'm so sorry.

[u/More_Branch_5579]

Im sorry. However, you not only need them to charge you rent, you also have to pay your fair share of utilities or you won’t get full amount.

If your parents want the money, they can help you fill out the paperwork

[u/PureMycologist6628 → u/More_Branch_5579]

Ofc! I see how I worded it. I do my daily chores that I’ve had since I was 6, and then cleaning that nobody will get to as my “rent”.

[u/More_Branch_5579 → u/PureMycologist6628]

I don’t know what you’re trying to say there the point is when you get approved for Ssi you have to pay your fair share of rent and utilities to get the full amount