How to Reinstate SSI Benefits: Your Expedited Reinstatement Guide

Are you feeling lost about reinstating your SSI benefits? Navigating the process can be daunting. Whether you’re facing a denial or suspension, understanding the steps is crucial. Remember, reinstating SSI benefits requires persistence and attention to detail. By following these steps, you can navigate the system effectively and secure the support you need to get expedited reinstatement.

The last thing you need when you’re out of work is to lose your wage replacement payments. If you need to know how to reinstate SSI benefits, read on.

How to Get Back on SSI: Key Takeaways

• You can get your SSI reinstated through a process called expedited reinstatement (EXR).
• You may even be able to go back on disability after working under certain circumstances.
• You could get provisional benefits while the Social Security Administration (SSA) considers your request.
• You have the right to appeal if your application is denied.

4 Reasons Your Supplemental Security Income Stopped

Your Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits may have been stopped due to various reasons. There are four main reasons you may have been taken off of SSI:

1. A change in your financial circumstances, such as an increase in income or resources exceeding the eligibility limits set by the Social Security Administration (SSA).
2. Failure to report changes in your living situation, marital status, or employment status accurately and in a timely manner could result in the suspension of your benefits, such as if you work part time and exceed the income limit.
3. Failure to comply with SSA’s requests for information or documentation.
4. Becoming ineligible due to your disability status or medical improvement changing in such a way that allows you to perform at substantial gainful activity (SGA) levels.

It’s crucial to stay informed about the requirements and promptly communicate any changes to ensure continued receipt of your SSI benefits.

What is the Expedited Reinstatement Provision for Social Security Disability?

Expedited Reinstatement with Supplemental Security Income (SSI) quickly restores SSI benefits for those whose payments were stopped due to exceeding income or resource limits. It allows a reinstatement request within five years without a new application. This provision is for individuals whose financial situation improved temporarily but cannot be sustained due to their disability. To qualify, you must demonstrate eligibility for SSI benefits and that your disability still prevents substantial gainful activity.

Expedited Reinstatement of SSI: Understanding the SSI Reinstatement Process

If you meet all of these criteria, you may qualify for EXR for your Supplemental Security Income:

• Your benefits were suspended because your wages exceeded the SSI income limit
• Your disability is the same or is related to the condition you were initially approved for
• Your disability has not improved since you were originally awarded benefits
• You are still unable to work at or over SGA levels and meet the SSI income and asset requirements

How Do I Get My SSI Reinstated With EXR?

To get your benefits reinstated through Expedited Reinstatement (EXR), you need to contact the Social Security Administration (SSA) by phone or by visiting your local SSA office. You’ll need to provide details about why your benefits stopped, particularly if it was due to work and earnings. Additionally, you must demonstrate that you’re unable to work or engage in substantial gainful activity due to a disability that’s either the same as or related to the one that originally qualified you for benefits.

Receiving Provisional Benefits

Make sure to request EXR within five years of the month your benefits ended. During the reinstatement process, you may receive provisional benefits, including cash payments and Medicare/Medicaid coverage, for up to six months.

To apply for EXR by phone, call the SSA at 800-772-1213 (TTY: 800-325-0778). The representative will ask you questions and get your request started.

Expedited Reinstatement of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

If you receive SSDI, you can apply for expedited reinstatement if:

• You stopped working or had to start working less because of the same or a closely related disability that was originally approved
• Your medical condition has not improved since you first applied
• Your earnings fall below the SGA level again within five years of your benefits suspension

Whether you receive SSI or SSDI benefits, Expedited Reinstatement is available to help you get back on benefits quickly after they’re terminated.

How Long Does it Take to Reinstate SSI Benefits?

It can take up to six months to get back on Supplemental Security Income (SSI). While you’re waiting for a decision on expedited reinstatement, the SSA may pay provisional benefits like cash payments and Medicaid coverage. These benefits last for a maximum of six months and can end sooner if you receive the EXR decision, engage in SGA, or reach full retirement age.

Appealing an Expedited Reinstatement Denial

If your request is denied, you can appeal within 60 days. This is called a request for reconsideration and you can file it directly with the SSA one of three ways:

1. Online. Go to https://secure.ssa.gov/iApplsRe/start and follow the prompts. Be sure to have your re-entry number at hand.
2. Via fax or mail. Download and complete the Request for Reconsideration form. Use the SSA Field Office Locator to find the fax number or mailing address for the office nearest you.

If your request for Expedited Reinstatement is denied, you have another 60 days to request a hearing with an administrative law judge.

Work with a Disability Lawyer to Reinstate Your SSI Benefits

Hiring a disability lawyer reduces the emotional and time burden of seeking expedited reinstatement and figuring out how to get back on SSI. Disability lawyers work on contingency, so you don’t pay unless you receive your disability benefits. Let them help you appeal your terminated benefits and help secure your financial assistance.

Are you ready to see if you qualify? Click here to get a FREE, no-obligation consultation before starting your claim.