SSI quality control reviews, was: SSI Questions...

[Guest guest]

As someone who worked in the 'system', I would like to put out a few

reasons why the best advice I give to applicants of any aid or medical

program has always been to tell the truth.

Social Security Numbers (SSNs).

The SSN you give us is checked again the Social Security Admin's files

for correctiness, i.e. is it a good number, does the name, birthdate,

sex, match the information attached to that SSN.

We get a report of all the money and quarters earned for that SSN for

the last three years.

With that last report we a listing of all financial institutions which

have paid out any interest in the past three years as well.

Depending on the state you live in, they may get a report of all

vehicles owned.

There are many other reports that we get to tell us about you and your

situation. Just don't lie to us, we know that you NEED the help or

you would not be here. Most workers in the Federal, State, and Local

governments want to help to truly needy, but we have to deal with

regulations too.

Some things people lie about that have no bearing on their case:

Their house. The house you live in is exempt.

Their cars. At least one car is exempt, possibly others as well.

Personal belongings. Your wedding rings, clothes, personal affects

are exempt.

Tools for work. If you need it to make money and have used it in the

past, yes, thats exempt too.

Don't hide imformation asked for on the application sheet. On the

other hand, you don't have to offer up information that is not asked

for either.

Most states/local governments have a information telephone line to ask

questions. Use this resource.

Good questions are:

I'm not on SSDI or SSI, can I still apply for medicaid?

What is the -Gross Income- limit for the programs I may be eligible

for? Gross Income is the maximum amount of money a family or single

person can make and be eligible.

What is the -Net Income- limit for the programs I may be eligible for?

This is the income with deductions.

Ask what the deductions are? Deductions can be Medical expenses,

rent, ulitilities, work expenses, child care, etc, etc. There are

literally thousands.

Just tell the truth and let the experts sort things out. Do call once

or twice a week to check up on your application. Be polite to your

worker. If they are doing a good job for you, let their supervisor

know. As a retired DSS supervisor, I heard more complaints than

compliments, but I know my workers did better than that. This doens't

help you out as much as helping out the next poor soul who wanders in

the door.