The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program is a federally funded program that pays a monthly benefit to people with limited income and resources who are age 65 or older, blind, or disabled. SSI is different from Social Security benefits in that it is paid from general tax revenues, not from Social Security taxes.
Who is eligible for SSI benefits?
You might be eligible for SSI if you meet the following requirements:
- Age or disability – You must be 65 or older, blind, or have a disability that prevents you from working.
- Limited income – Your income must be below the SSI limits. This includes wages, pensions, and other assistance you receive.
- Limited resources – You must have limited financial resources, generally less than $2,000 for an individual or $3,000 for a married couple.
- U.S. residency – You must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen residing in the U.S.
How much money can you get from SSI?
The amount you receive from SSI depends on your financial situation. As of 2024, the federal benefit rate is:
- $943 per month for an individual
- $1,415 per month for a couple Your actual payment may be lower if you have other sources of income. Some states also provide additional payments on top of the federal amount.
How to apply for SSI benefits
Applying for SSI is a straightforward process, but you need to gather the right documents and follow specific steps.
- Gather necessary documents
- Social Security number
- Birth certificate or proof of age
- Proof of income (pay stubs, bank statements, etc.)
- Medical records if applying due to disability
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or legal residency
- Start your application
- You can apply online through the Social Security Administration (SSA) website if you are an adult with a disability.
- You can also apply by calling the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 to schedule an appointment.
- If you prefer, you can visit your local Social Security office to apply in person.
- Complete an interview
- An SSA representative may conduct a phone or in-person interview to review your application and verify your eligibility.
- Wait for a decision
- The processing time can take several months, especially if medical evidence is required.
- If approved, you will receive a letter with details about your benefits and payment schedule.
What to do if your SSI application is denied
If your application is denied, do not lose hope. You have the right to appeal the decision.
- Request reconsideration – Ask the SSA to review your case again.
- Hearing before a judge – If reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing with an administrative law judge.
- Further appeals – If necessary, you can escalate your case to higher courts.
Additional benefits available for SSI recipients
If you qualify for SSI, it is likely that you can qualify for other forms of assistance, such as:
- Medicaid – This program provides you with healthcare at an affordable rate.
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – This program will allow you to get food at a reduced cost.
- Housing assistance – You may be able to get affordable housing via this program.
If you want to increase your chances of receiving the financial assistance that you need, it is important to learn and understand how SSI actually works and follow the application process as needed.
