With about 775,000 people homeless across the United States, according to the Chicago Alliance to End Homelessness, there are many people that need help out in the streets, especially as winter approaches. A story by Gannett News said that many homeless could have disability qualifying benefits which could help them get Social Security benefits.
Aside from disability benefits, Ken Hess, a Social Security Public Affairs Specialist, writes that people who are homeless can be helped by retirement and survivor benefits, as well as Supplemental Security Income, a need-based program for the blind, disabled or elderly. Hess suggests finding out more if help is needed.
The CAEH said based on a report from January 2011, there are 14,055 people who experience homelessness each night in Illinois. About 16 percent of those people are chronically homeless. Of that population, 15 percent are veterans, 32 percent are severely mentally ill and 4 percent have HIV or AIDS. Many could get help if they sought it out.
The Law Offices of Harold W. Conick and Associates has assisted numerous homeless clients with disability qualifying benefits qualify for Social Security benefits. Our office is aware of the special needs of homeless individuals and is skilled in guiding them through the steps necessary to receive a timely approval of their disability benefits.