IS LEGAL ASSISTANCE NECESSARY?
Yes. Though its not required, legal assistance is extremely helpful for an appeal, especially after reconsideration. Once the child receives a “notice of denial”, we strongly advise parents to ask for reconsideration. If benefits are again denied (as they often are), the appeals process can become complicated. Parents should immediately seek legal assistance. The local legal aid or legal services office can help if parents cant afford an attorney; their lawyers and paralegals handle many such hearings. Back to Top PLAN FOR ACHIEVING SELF-SUPPORT The SSI law permits a person with a disability to set aside income and/or resources for a specified period for a work goal education, vocational training, or starting a business. This is called a Plan for Achieving Self-Support (PASS). SSA doesnt count income and resources used for the PASS in determining SSI financial eligibility. An approved PASS can thus help a child become eligible for SSI, keep SSI benefits or receive a higher SSI payment.
