How do you file an appeal for SSI disability?   How do you file an appeal for SSI disability? The same way you file an appeal for Social Security Disability. There is no difference. In fact, when it comes to processing a disability claim with the social security administration, there are no differences between SSI and Social Security Disability. This page specifically discusses the filing of appeals: How to Appeal a disability claim denial from Social Security. How is SSI different from SSD? Now, if you're thinking to yourself "Wait, I was told that Social Security Disability and SSI are two separate programs". Yes, they are two separate and distinct disability programs. Social Security Disability (also known as SSD, SSDI, RSDI, DIB, and title II benefits) is for individuals who have worked and earned enough quarters of coverage to be insured for Social Security Disability benefits. SSI, on the other hand, provides disability benefits to individuals who either -- 1. Never worked and earned enough coverage quarters for SSD, or 2. Were once covered for SSD via their earnings, but, whose coverage has lapsed (which can happen if you've not worked in a long time). The definition of SSI, of course, means that this is also the social security administration's disability program which provides disability benefits for minor children. Are there other differences between SSI and SSD? Yes, individuals who are approved for SSI will typically, depending on the state in which they reside, receive medicaid benefits while those who are approved for Social Security Disability will receive medicare benefits two years after their date of entitlement. Also, SSI, since it is a needs based program, is subject to asset limitations (you cannot have more than two thousand dollars in countable assets) and the income of a spouse of an SSI applicant / recipient will count to some extent (this is called "deeming") when it comes to determining eligibility. Obviously, SSI and Social Security Disability are separate and distinct programs. However, none of that makes a difference when you file an appeal. Why? Because when you originally file for disability, you are simply doing that: filing for disability. From an application standpoint, the distinctions between SSI and SSD are chiefly for the purpose of deciding which category to put your claim in. But, aside from that, the differences are hardly worth noting (i.e. SSI and SSD claims are processed the same way by disability examiners working in state-level disability determination services, evaluated the same way, handled the same way---nothing changes). So, back to the question with which we began: How do you file an SSI appeal? Answer: the same way you file a Social Security Disability appeal. You simply contact the social security office and let them know (assuming you have just received a notice of denial) that you need to file an appeal. At that point, they will send you the appropriate appeal forms which you will complete and return to them. If you have an attorney or non attorney handling your case, by all means have them do your appeal for you. Lastly, you also have the option of filing your SSI appeal online, though your attorney or non attorney representative can do this for you as well. Related: How does the Social Security Disability Appeal Process work? How Long Does A Social Security Disability Appeal Take? About the Author: Tim Moore is a former Social Security Disability Examiner in North Carolina, has been interviewed by the NY Times and the LA Times on the disability system, and is an Accredited Disability Representative (ADR) in North Carolina. For assistance on a disability application or Appeal in NC, click here. Most popular topics on SSDRC.com Social Security Disability in North Carolina Common Mistakes to avoid after being denied for Disability Tips to Prepare for Filing for Social Security Disability or SSI Advice to Win SSD and SSI Benefit Claims Social Security Disability SSI Questions What is the difference between Social Security Disability and SSI? How to get disability for depression Getting disability for fibromyalgia SSI disability for children with ADHD What is the Application Process for Social Security Disability and SSI? Social Security Disability SSI Exam tips More Social Security Disability SSI Questions What makes you eligible for Social Security Disability or SSI? Related pages: How does the Social Security Disability Appeal Process work? Winning a Social Security Disability Appeal or SSI Appeal The first appeal in a Social Security Disability or SSI case How Do I Find Out my Disability Appeal status? How long does it take to appeal a disability case? How to Appeal a disability claim denial from Social Security