Potentially erroneous SSI denials being reviewed by the Social Security Administration (SSA).

Potentially erroneous SSI denials being reviewed by the Social Security Administration (SSA). The SSA published a new Emergency Message, EM-20168, Instructions for Reopening and Reevaluating COVID-19 Disaster Assistance, on December 9, 2021. Access the message by clicking here. According to the Emergency Message (EM), SSA is now reopening hundreds of thousands of applications for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits that they previously denied from March 2020 to the present because those decisions may have been erroneous. While some cases will be automatically reviewed, other cases will need to be brought to the agency’s attention in order to correct errors related to a person’s receipt of disaster assistance. Advocates assisting clients with denials can take proactive steps to identify potential cases and contact SSA to request a review. Nassau Suffolk Law Services’ Disability Advocacy Project (DAP) assists disabled persons in appealing the initial denial of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability (SSD) applications. Eligibility for services is usually based on the receipt of Temporary Assistance (cash public assistance) from the Department of Social Services. Suffolk residents can call 631-232-2400. Nassau residents can call 516-292-8100.