Applying for Supplemental Security Income

What is Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?


Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program through the Social Security Administration (SSA) that provides financial assistance to individuals with disabilities, low-income individuals over the age of 65, and certain blind individuals. To be eligible for SSI benefits, one must meet the following requirements: age, income, citizenship or legal resident status, disability and application.

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Brian Miller Presents "My Loved One Has Been Diagnosed with Dementia" at the Kensington White Plains

Littman Krooks’ is happy to have partnered with The Kensington White Plains and The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America for an educational presentation for those recently diagnosed with dementia, and their families and caregivers on July 18. Melpo Voulieris, LMSW from the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America and our own Brian Miller, Elder Law Attorney, presented lots of much needed information to the crowd. Brian, Melpo and the staff at The Kensington helped answer many questions that families have during this very overwhelming, heart wrenching and confusing time for loved ones with dementia.


Thank you to The Kensington White Plains for hosting this very engaging and educational event, and for sharing some great photos of the event. To learn more about the services provided bu the Kensington White Plains, please visit here, and for more resources provided by the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America, please visit here.

  

If you have a loved one recently diagnosed with dementia and need help, please contact us.

Get to Know Partner Marion M. Walsh

For Marion Walsh practicing special education law with a focus on mental health represents an important public service. She discusses what inspired her to work in this field of law:


Q: What drew you to the practice of law in special education and mental health advocacy? 


Since law school at NYU, I have aspired to work for social change, and I believe that the law represents a tool for justice. I received inspiration from, among others, John Rawls, author of A Theory of Justice, whom I heard lecture in a legal philosophy course. Rawls believed that a just society should devote the maximum resources possible to the least advantaged. To me, individuals with disabilities deserve the greatest support and resources possible devoted to their education and well-being. While institutions must be able to sustain themselves, all can do more to understand and serve those with disabilities, including those with mental health conditions. 


Q: What keeps you excited and energized in this field? 


The last three years, particularly in education, have brought unprecedented challenges and frustrations. Advocacy is more important than ever, and I love the challenge of taking on complex cases to protect vulnerable youth and adults. The strength of the individuals and families we work with always inspires me, and I also stay energized through our great LK team. as well as volunteer service with NAMI Westchester and Chappaqua Friends Meeting.


Q: What bucket list location would you love to visit? 


The Galapagos Islands has always been on my bucket list. My husband and I have planned a trip to visit the Galapagos and Machu Picchu to celebrate our 30th anniversary. 


Q: What are the last good books you’ve read?


I am currently reading Remarkably Bright Creatures, by Shelby Van Pelt-- an unexpected mystery narrated in part by a giant Pacific octopus. On a more somber note, I just finished “Nine Black Robes: Inside the Supreme Court's Drive to the Right and Its Historic Consequences,” by Joan Biskupic—an excellent summary of the inner workings in the Supreme Court that led to the seismic reversal of established precedents. 

 

Q: Tell us a little-known fact about your life. 

 

I spent a formative part of my childhood in Honolulu, Hawaii, on Ford Island, Pearl Harbor, as my late father served in the U.S. Navy. We experienced history everyday as we lived in quarters that were standing on December 7, 1941, right near the USS Arizona Memorial. We lived just a house away from Vice Admiral Samuel Gravely, Jr., the first African- American Admiral in the U.S. Navy, whom my father served with. I grew up in the shadow of giants and learned so much about resilience, public service and duty.

 

Q: What are some things you do to relax on a Saturday?

 

Kickboxing in the morning helps me release the week’s tension. I love hiking with my two large dogs, Sirius and Baldr and exploring trails in the Hudson Valley off the beaten path. I enjoy sitting on my front porch and reading and then, in the evening, savoring a glass of summer wine with my husband. I always look forward to visits from my four adult children and two grandchildren. Life is good!

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ReelAbilities Stream: A New Innovative and Accessible Streaming Platform

Starting this month, you can add new movies to your watchlist from a brand-new streaming service. ReelAbilities Stream is launching a new platform for viewers to watch movies and documentaries that celebrate the lives and stories of individuals with disabilities.


The ReelAbilities Film Festival originated in New York in 2007 and was founded by the Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan. Since then, the film festival has been held in over 20 cities around the world. Now, ReelAbilities is bringing the film festival to our own homes. The new streaming service is set to include films that have been showcased at the festival, many of which cannot be watched anywhere else.

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Littman Krooks Team Attends NYSBA Elder Law & Special Needs Section Summer Meeting in Philly

Brian Miller, Joel Krooks, Nick Khayumov and Amy O’Hara attended the NYSBA Elder Law and Special Needs Section Summer Meeting in Philadelphia to discuss recent developments in our area of practice. Both Amy and Nick are on the executive committee of the section. They did enjoy a little time away from the meeting and went to the Eastern State Penitentiary.

Events

CaringKind's Legal and Financial Webinar


This seminar is designed to acquaint families affected by Alzheimer's disease and related dementias with legal and financial issues associated with planning for the long-term care of their relative. An attorney specializing in Elder Law will discuss important topics family members should understand before meeting with their personal attorney. Prior attendance at an Understanding Dementia seminar is recommended.


Date: Monday, August 7, 2023

Time: 5:30 pm - 7 pm


RSVP Here

Special Education Legal Fund's Annual Resource Fair


Date: Sunday, October 1, 2023

Time: 2 pm - 5 pm

Location: Stamford Jewish Community Center. 1035 Newfield Avenue, Stamford, CT, 06905

Register Here

Back to School Lecture Series: What Parents Really Need to Know to Support Their Special Needs Child


Partner Marion M. Walsh and Nichole Garcia will be presenting on legal advocacy in this 7-topic Zoom lecture series.


Date: October 13, 2023

Register Here

CaringKind's 35th New York City Alzheimer's Walk


Date: Sunday, October 22, 2023

Time: 10 am

Location: Central Park, Naumburg Bandshell

Register Here

Littman Krooks LLP is among the 2022 U.S. News – Best Lawyers® “Best Law Firms." with partners that have been named as top attorneys in New York for 2022 by Super Lawyers magazine.

Practice Areas

Corporate & Securities
Elder Law & Estate Planning
Special Needs Planning
Special Education Advocacy

Large Firm Service. Small Firm Attention.


As a boutique law firm, Littman Krooks offers the powerful knowledge base of a large law firm with the detailed focus, personal attention, and commitment of a small one. Our broad legal expertise, commitment to personal service, and passion for our work have allowed us to deliver effective representation to our clients, ensuring their success and ours. Together, we prepare families and businesses for a bright future.

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