Presumptive Disability

An applicant for supplemental security income (SSI) benefits on the basis of disability or blindness, may be able to collect benefits before the Social Security Administration (SSA) make a formal finding of whether or not the claimant is disabled or blind. In order to receive these payments, SSA must find that the claimant is presumptively disabled or presumptively blind. All other eligibility requirements for supplemental security income benefits must also be met. Payments are made for up to 6 months while the agency makes a formal disability determination.