Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program that provides financial assistance to disabled adults and children, and to people aged 65 or older who have low income and resources.
Key Takeaways
- You may qualify for SSI if you are blind or disabled and have limited income and resources.
- You can apply for SSI online, by phone, or by mail.
- You will need to provide medical evidence of your disability and financial information.
- The SSI application process can take several months to complete.
- You can appeal if your SSI claim is denied.
Understanding Eligibility for Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
SSI is a federally funded program that provides financial assistance to disabled adults and children, as well as blind or disabled individuals. To qualify for SSI, you must meet specific income and asset limits, as well as disability or age requirements.
Income and Asset Limits for SSI
To qualify for SSI, your income and assets must fall below certain limits. The limits vary depending on your living situation and whether you have a spouse or dependents.
Individuals:
| Income Limit | Asset Limit |
|---|---|
| $1,913/month | $2,000 |
Couples:
| Income Limit | Asset Limit |
|---|---|
| $2,827/month | $3,000 |
Income: Income includes earnings from work, Social Security benefits, and other sources. It also includes “in-kind” income, such as food or housing provided by someone other than yourself.
Assets: Assets include cash, bank accounts, stocks, bonds, and real estate. They do not include your home, car, or personal belongings.
Disability and Age Requirements
To qualify for SSI based on disability, you must have a physical or mental impairment that prevents you from working. The impairment must be expected to last for at least 12 months or result in death.
You may also qualify for SSI if you are blind or disabled and:
- Are 65 years of age or older
- Are disabled and have a child under 18 years of age
- Are disabled and are caring for a disabled spouse
Medical Evidence for SSI Claims
If you are applying for SSI based on disability, you will need to provide medical evidence to support your claim. This evidence may include:
- Medical records from your doctor
- Test results
- X-rays
- Other medical documentation
Applying for SSI
To apply for SSI, you can:
- Visit your local Social Security office
- Call the Social Security Administration (SSA) at 1-800-772-1213
- Apply online at www.ssa.gov
The SSA will review your application and determine if you are eligible for SSI. If you are approved, you will receive a monthly benefit payment.
Applying for SSI Benefits
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a program that provides financial assistance to people who are disabled, blind, or over 65 years old and have low income and resources. It's administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA) and funded by general tax revenues. Each state has different rules for SSI, so the amount of money you get each month will vary depending on where you live.
Completing the Application Form
The first step to applying for SSI benefits is to complete an application form. You can get a form online at the SSA website, or you can call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 to request one.The application form is long and complex, so it's important to take your time and answer all the questions carefully. If you need help completing the form, you can contact your local Social Security office or a legal aid organization.
Gathering Required Documentation
In addition to the application form, you will also need to gather some supporting documentation. This documentation may include: Proof of identity (such as a driver's license or birth certificate) Proof of citizenship or lawful residence Proof of income (such as pay stubs or tax returns) Proof of resources (such as bank statements or investment accounts) Proof of disability (such as a doctor's diagnosis or medical records) Proof of blindness (such as an eye exam report)
Submitting Your Application
Once you have completed the application form and gathered the required documentation, you can submit your application to the SSA. You can submit your application online, by mail, or in person at a local Social Security office.If you submit your application online, you will need to create an account with the SSA. Once you have created an account, you can fill out the application form and upload your supporting documentation.If you submit your application by mail, you can download the application form from the SSA website or request one by calling the SSA at 1-800-772-1213. Once you have completed the form, you can mail it to the SSA at the address provided on the form.If you submit your application in person, you can go to your local Social Security office. The office staff will help you complete the application form and gather the required documentation.
What Happens After You Submit Your Application
Once you have submitted your application, the SSA will review it to determine if you are eligible for SSI benefits. The SSA may also ask you to provide additional information or documentation.If you are approved for SSI benefits, you will receive a monthly payment from the SSA. The amount of your payment will be based on your income and resources.If you are denied SSI benefits, you have the right to appeal the decision. You can appeal by writing a letter to the SSA or by calling the SSA at 1-800-772-1213.
Understanding SSI Benefits
SSI is a needs-based program, which means that your eligibility for benefits is based on your income and resources. In order to be eligible for SSI benefits, you must meet the following requirements: You must be disabled, blind, or over 65 years old. You must have limited income and resources. You must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified alien.The SSA considers a variety of factors when determining your eligibility for SSI benefits, including your: Age Disability status Income Resources Living arrangements
SSI Income Limits
The SSA has set income limits for SSI eligibility. In 2023, the income limit for individuals is $1,913 per month. The income limit for couples is $2,827 per month.Your income includes all of your earned and unearned income, such as: Wages Salaries Tips Commissions Self-employment income Social Security benefits Pension benefits Disability benefits Unemployment benefits Workers' compensation benefits Gifts PrizesThere are some types of income that are not counted against the SSI income limit, such as: In-kind support and maintenance (such as food and shelter) Home energy assistance Certain types of disaster relief payments Certain types of student financial aid
SSI Resource Limits
The SSA has also set resource limits for SSI eligibility. In 2023, the resource limit for individuals is $2,000. The resource limit for couples is $3,000.Your resources include all of your assets, such as: Cash Bank accounts Stocks Bonds Mutual funds Real estate Vehicles Personal propertyThere are some types of resources that are not counted against the SSI resource limit, such as: Your home One vehicle Personal belongings Burial plots Life insurance policies with a face value of $10,000 or less
SSI Payment Amounts
The amount of your SSI payment is based on your income and resources. The SSA calculates your payment by subtracting your countable income from the federal benefit rate (FBR). The FBR is set by Congress each year.In 2023, the FBR for individuals is $914 per month. The FBR for couples is $1,371 per month.If your countable income is less than the FBR, you will receive the full FBR amount. If your countable income is more than the FBR, your payment will be reduced by $1 for every $2 that your income exceeds the FBR.
Applying for SSI Benefits If You Are Disabled
If you are disabled, you may be eligible for SSI benefits. To be considered disabled by the SSA, you must have a physical or mental impairment that: Is expected to last for at least 12 months or result in death Prevents you from workingThe SSA has a list of impairments that it considers to be disabling. However, you do not have to have one of these impairments to be considered disabled. The SSA will consider your individual circumstances when making a determination about your disability.If you are applying for SSI benefits based on disability, you will need to provide the SSA with medical evidence of your disability. This evidence may include: A diagnosis from a doctor Medical records Test results Treatment plansThe SSA may also ask you to undergo a physical or mental examination by a doctor that they choose.
Applying for SSI Benefits If You Are Blind
If you are blind, you may be eligible for SSI benefits. To be considered blind by the SSA, you must have: Central visual acuity of 20/200 or less in the better eye with the use of a corrective lens A field of vision of 20 degrees or lessIf you are applying for SSI benefits based on blindness, you will need to provide the SSA with proof of your blindness. This proof may include: An eye exam report Medical records A statement from a doctor
Applying for SSI Benefits If You Are Over 65 Years Old
If you are over 65 years old, you may be eligible for SSI benefits. To be eligible for SSI benefits based on age, you must: Be 65 years old or older Have limited income and resources Be a U.S. citizen or a qualified alienIf you are applying for SSI benefits based on age, you will need to provide the SSA with proof of your age and citizenship or residency status. This proof may include: A birth certificate A U.S. passport A naturalization certificate A Certificate of Citizenship A Permanent Resident Card
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal income supplement program funded by general tax revenues (not Social Security taxes). It is designed to help aged, blind, and disabled people, who have little or no income and resources, meet their basic needs for food, clothing, and shelter.
SSI Benefits and Payments
SSI provides monthly payments to eligible individuals. The amount of your payment is based on your income and resources. There are two types of SSI payments:
Types of SSI Payments
- Federal SSI payment: This is the basic SSI payment amount set by the federal government. For 2023, the federal SSI payment is $914 per month for individuals and $1,371 per month for couples.
- State SSI supplement: Some states add money to the federal SSI payment. The amount of the state supplement varies from state to state.
The Combined Federal/State Supplement Payment for 2023 is as follows:
| State | Payment |
|---|---|
| Alabama | $232 |
| Alaska | $155 |
| Arizona | $20 |
| Arkansas | $100 |
| California | $309 |
| Colorado | $125 |
| Connecticut | $176 |
| Delaware | $80 |
| District of Columbia | $294 |
| Florida | $0 |
| Georgia | $123 |
| Hawaii | $0 |
| Idaho | $100 |
| Illinois | $176 |
| Indiana | $252 |
| Iowa | $0 |
| Kansas | $0 |
| Kentucky | $92 |
| Louisiana | $110 |
| Maine | $0 |
| Maryland | $0 |
| Massachusetts | $0 |
| Michigan | $132 |
| Minnesota | $248 |
| Mississippi | $0 |
| Missouri | $126 |
| Montana | $0 |
| Nebraska | $93 |
| Nevada | $140 |
| New Hampshire | $0 |
| New Jersey | $0 |
| New Mexico | $211 |
| New York | $125 |
| North Carolina | $256 |
| North Dakota | $66 |
| Ohio | $0 |
| Oklahoma | $187 |
| Oregon | $203 |
| Pennsylvania | $233 |
| Rhode Island | $0 |
| South Carolina | $0 |
| South Dakota | $0 |
| Tennessee | $146 |
| Texas | $0 |
| Utah | $0 |
| Vermont | $188 |
| Virginia | $118 |
| Washington | $100 |
| West Virginia | $73 |
| Wisconsin | $113 |
| Wyoming | $0 |
Payment Schedules and Direct Deposit
SSI payments are made on the first of each month. If the first falls on a weekend or holiday, your payment will be made on the last business day before the first.You can choose to have your SSI payments deposited directly into your bank account. To do this, you will need to provide your bank account information to the Social Security Administration (SSA).
Your Right to Appeal SSI Decisions
If you disagree with an SSI decision, you have the right to appeal. You can appeal:
- The amount of your SSI payment
- Whether you are eligible for SSI
- Any other SSI decision
To appeal an SSI decision, you must file a written request for a hearing within 60 days of the date of the decision. You can file your request online, by mail, or in person at your local SSA office.
Managing Your SSI Benefits
SSI benefits provide a vital safety net for millions of Americans with disabilities and limited income. Understanding how to manage your SSI benefits is crucial to ensure you receive the full support you are entitled to.
Reporting Changes that Affect Eligibility
It is essential to report any changes that may affect your SSI eligibility promptly. These changes include:
- Changes in your income or assets
- Changes in your living arrangements
- Changes in your health condition
- Changes in your marital status
Failure to report changes can result in overpayments or the suspension of your benefits. It is your responsibility to keep the Social Security Administration (SSA) informed of any changes that could impact your eligibility.
Protecting Your SSI Benefits from Misuse
Your SSI benefits are intended to help you meet your essential needs. Protecting your benefits from misuse is crucial to ensure you have access to the resources you need.
- Be wary of scams. Scammers may try to trick you into giving them your personal information or money. Be aware of phone calls, emails, or other communications from individuals claiming to be from the SSA. Never share your personal information or financial details with anyone you do not trust.
- Manage your finances carefully. SSI benefits are intended to supplement your other income. It is important to budget wisely and avoid spending more than you can afford.
- Be aware of representative payee options. If you are unable to manage your SSI benefits independently, you can appoint a representative payee. This person will help you manage your finances and ensure your benefits are used appropriately.
Work Incentives for SSI Recipients
SSI recipients can participate in work and earn a supplemental income without losing their benefits. The SSA offers several work incentives to encourage SSI recipients to work and become self-sufficient.
| Incentive | Description |
|---|---|
| Trial Work Period (TWP) | Allows SSI recipients to work without losing benefits for up to nine months in a rolling 60-month period. |
| Student Earned Income Exclusion (SEIE) | Excludes earnings from student employment from SSI income calculations. |
| Impairment-Related Work Expenses (IRWE) | Deducts disability-related work expenses from SSI income. |
These incentives can help SSI recipients transition to work and achieve greater financial independence.
Frequently asked questions
What is Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?
- SSI is a federal income supplement program funded by general tax revenues (not Social Security taxes).
Who is eligible for SSI?
- You may be eligible for SSI if you are age 65 or older, blind, or disabled and have limited income and resources.
How much SSI can I get?
- The amount of SSI you get depends on your income and resources. In 2023, the maximum federal SSI payment is $914 per month for individuals and $1,371 per month for couples.
How do I apply for SSI?
- You can apply for SSI online, by phone, or in person at your local Social Security office.
What documents do I need to apply for SSI?
- You will need to provide proof of your age, identity, income, and resources.