This definitive guide on social security insurance and SSDI and SSI benefits offers authority, insight, strategy—as well as valuable practical guidance—for advocates and clients. The book outlines federal programs, addresses eligibility, and answers questions as to how SSI and SSDI are administered. Particular concerns related to citizen and alien status are discussed, as are approaches to applications, appeals, initial determinations, and reconsideration. Also included is information on evaluating disability for children, and a three-step method for evaluating a child’s eligibility for SSI benefits. Concepts such as presumptive disability, substantial gainful activity (SGA), continuing disability reviews (CDRs) and how to qualify impairment are explained. The book also addresses medical evidence in disability determinations and provides an overview of sources to establish medically determinable impairments and their severity. Post-eligibility issues, including retroactive benefits, installment payment structures, and reporting requirements are covered, as is the topic of ineligibility due to criminal status. The book also addresses the medical improvement standard and its exceptions, and the impact of vocational rehabilitation programs on benefit continuation. Work incentive programs, notice and appeal of overpayments are also discussed in this comprehensive and eminently readable handbook.