(FORT PIERCE, Fla.) — An elderly couple facing the loss of their sole income source due to alleged overpayments recently had their Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits reinstated with the help of FRLS- Florida Rural Legal Services in St. Lucie County.
John and Folly, both in their 70s, turned to FRLS after receiving notice from the Social Security Administration (SSA) that their SSI benefits would be terminated due to excessive resources. The notice claimed the couple's assets had exceeded the $3,000 resource limit for married recipients over a period of about a year.
Complicating matters, the couple sought help after the deadline to file a Request for Reconsideration had passed. FRLS attorneys assisted in preparing a good cause affidavit for late filing, citing Mrs. Vassell's limited English literacy and delayed receipt of the notice. The SSA accepted the late appeal.
During the appeals process, FRLS demonstrated that the couple no longer possessed the resources initially counted against them. The couple had sold their real property and cashed in Mr. Vassell's life insurance policy, using the proceeds for essential living expenses such as rent, utilities, and food.
Upon reviewing this evidence, the SSA reinstated the couple's SSI benefits in full. Their monthly payment was restored to approximately $520, with about $75 withheld monthly to repay a determined $15,000 overpayment.
This case highlighted the crucial role of legal aid organizations in helping vulnerable individuals navigate complex bureaucratic processes and maintain their financial stability.
FRLS, a non-profit law firm, provides legal assistance to low-income residents across Florida. The organization's intervention proved pivotal in securing the couple' financial lifeline.
Get Free Legal Help:
For more information on how you may qualify for free legal services, please contact Florida Rural Legal Services at 1-888-582-3410.
About Florida Rural Legal Services:
Florida Rural Legal Services is a nonprofit law firm dedicated to providing free civil legal assistance to low-income individuals and families in 13 counties throughout South Florida. Established in 1966, FRLS's mission is to empower low-income individuals, groups, and communities by providing them with access to justice through quality legal representation and advocacy.