I had surgery for a fistula on the bladder in July 2004 and was diagnosed with Crohns.
Doctors determined I was disabled with Crohns(No Cure).
I requested financial counseling
I spoke with a social worker while in the hospital
The social worker met with Social Security about my disability
I provided financial information requested by Social Security
1. Bank accounts
2. Investment portfolio
3. Personal vehicles
4. Credit union account
I was told my assets/resources exceeded the maximum amount allowed ($2,000) in order to be eligible for SSI.
I was told to spend down my assets/resources to the maximum allowed and I would be eligible for SSI
My assets/resources were below $2,000 in April 2006;
I now have no money to pay rent, utilities, perform preventive maintenance on personal vehicle, purchase auto insurance etc.
I filed for an appeal hearing before an Administrative Law Judge and was denied
Congress passed legislation allowing disabled citizens to protect assets or set up a "special needs trust" under Section 1917 (d)(4)(A), (d)(4)(B). (d)(4)(C) of the Social Security Act
Ref:
http://www.ssa.gov/notices/supplemen...pot-trusts.htm
The guideline states that I can set up trust fund and still receive SSI benefits without penalty
I am unemployed
I sent letters and called 20-25 attorneys but no one would take case on contingency
I have no financial resources to retain a lawyer
On numerous occasions I contacted Claims Rep and requested status of my SSI claim
The reply was: They are still reviewing your case
I contacted U.S. Senator John Cornyn and explained my problems with Social Security Admin
He contacted Social Security for status of SSI claim and processing of my claim started
First payment received Nov 2007, due to U.S. Senator getting involved
I was unable to get the status of my SSI claim without assistance
The SSI benefit only covers my rent
Take a look at web page
www.sites.google.com/site/rehabilitationact1973
You can review case documents