How to Apply for Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program that pays monthly to individuals who have a limited income or access to few resources.

To receive SSI, you have to meet one of the following qualifications:

• Be at least 65 or older
• Be totally or partially blind
• Have a medical issue that prevents you from being able to work and is expected to a last at least 1 year or result in death

Other than that, SSI is not dependent on age and even children can qualify to receive it.

It’s important to note that not everyone gets the same amount financially each month. In fact, you may receive more if you reside in a state that adds additional money to your monthly SSI payment.

Where and who you live with also becomes a determining factor on how much financial support you can receive.

How to Determine Your Benefits

Your current income including the money you may receive from Social Security benefits, your pension, and the value of the items you get from others plays a key factor on how much you can get paid.

Another important factor taken into consideration is the accumulated value of what you own. In order to be eligible for SSI, you can not own things worth more than $2,000 for a single person and $3,000 for a married couple.

Please note, things like the house you own if you live in it as well as your car is NOT factored into this equation. Things like cash in your bank accounts, stocks and bonds are however.

You also must be a US resident or lawfully living in the United States to be qualified.

To receive SSI, it is mandatory that you also apply for Social Security benefits and any other applicable government benefits for which you may be a candidate for.

Generally, you can also get benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Medicaid if you end up qualifying for SSI. This means you will receive ongoing support for both food, doctors, and medical bills.

To apply for SSI online, you can start the process by visiting https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/forms/. However, if you find this process challenging or want to give yourself the best opportunity of getting approved, we always recommend that you connect with a lawyer experienced with helping people receive SSI. If you have a disability and can’t work, make sure to start the approval process right away and get the benefits you are entitled to receive.