A Supplemental Security Income (SSI) hearing is requested following the denial of a request for reconsideration. The SSI hearing is the final step in SSIAP. After the request for reconsideration is denied, unless the participant chooses other/self-representation, the participant is referred to the County's contracted SSI hearing representative who represents the participant at a hearing with Social Security's Office of Hearings and Appeals.

Unlike the request for reconsideration (which is a case review), the SSI hearing is a face-to-face hearing with an Administrative Law Judge who reviews the case, discusses with the participant the effect of the disability on his/her day-to-day functioning, and decides if the SSI disability requirements are met.

• When a request for reconsideration has been denied:
  
  
• In the last 60 days, an SSI hearing is requested; or



• More than 60 days ago, an SSI application is completed.
  
  
• Once the request for reconsideration is denied, case management is transferred from the SSI Advocate to the contracted hearing representative.
  
  
• Even if the General Relief (GR) case is later terminated, the contracted hearing representative continues working with the participant through the end of the SSI hearing process.
  
  
• The contracted hearing representative follows up with the participant, obtains any update on the participant's disabling condition and supporting medical documentation, and requests the SSI hearing.
  
  
• The contracted hearing representative informs the participant of the date/time/location of the hearing (which the participant must attend as a condition of aid).
  
  
• Following the hearing, the contracted hearing representative follows up with SSA's Office of Hearings and Appeals to obtain the results.
  
  
• If SSI is denied, the hearing representative reviews the decision with the participant, advising that the participant can (independently or with a private attorney) file an appeal with the Appeals Counsel.
  
  

• Upon notification of denial of the request for reconsideration:



• Contacts the participant, explaining the SSI hearing process, giving him/her the option to have other/self-representation, but pointing out the advantages of having the County's contracted attorney be the representative, including that there is no cost to the participant.
  
  
• Provides the participant with the contracted hearing representative's name and phone number.
  
  
• Explains that the hearing process can take a long time, but that the contracted hearing representative will continue to work with the participant all through the process, even if the participant goes off GR.
  
  
• Explains the next steps to the participant, including his/her reporting responsibilities and the requirement for him/her to attend the SSI hearing.
  
  
• Assesses any supportive services needs, making any appropriate referrals and/or authorizing any needed transportation funds for medical and/or SSI-related appointments.
  
  
• Records all participant contacts/SSIAP case activity on the ABPSSI 16, SSIAP Activity Record.
  
  
• Updates LEADER, transferring case management to the contracted hearing representative.
  
  

Upon denial of a request for reconsideration, the outcomes should include:

• The participant has the contracted hearing representative's name and phone number (in addition to the SSI Advocate's name and telephone number).
  
  
• The participant understands the next steps in the process, including his/her reporting responsibilities and obligation to attend the SSI hearing.
  
  
• Any needed supportive services referrals were made or transportation funds were issued.
  
  
• The ABPSSI 16 and LEADER were updated with any new or changed information.