Supplemental Security Income Program (SSI) is a federal program run by the US government that supports US citizens and nationals by providing cash payments. The amount is paid to help the participants meet basic needs like food, clothing, and shelter. The program usually targets disabled children, disabled adults, and individuals aged 65 or older. The program was introduced by the Social Security Amendments of 1972 and came into implementation in 1974.
Eligibility Requirement to Apply for SSI
Similar to other federal programs, you will have to meet the eligibility requirements for applying and enjoying the benefits of SSI. Anyone who is over 65 years of age or blind or disabled and you have limited income or limited resources. Besides meeting the above-mentioned criteria, you should also be a resident of any of the fifty states of the United States.
There are several instances where you may not qualify for the SSI benefit even after meeting all the requirements mentioned above. For instance, if you do not have legal immigration status, you are someone who has an arrest warrant, or if you live outside the country for a long duration, you will be disqualified from getting any of the benefits of SSI. However, in the last case, there is a time period of 30 consecutive days. While on SSI benefits, if you live outside the country for 30 consecutive days or more, you will be disqualified from the program.
Your living arrangement or the state of residency is another factor that influences your eligibility for SSI. Whether you live in your own home or apartment or mobile home, someone else’s residence, institutions, or care facility – all these play a great role. You will still qualify for SSI if you are homeless or living in a shelter. However, you will continue to enjoy SSI benefits for 6 months in case you are living in a public shelter in your state.
A child may also qualify for SSI if he has a qualifying disability or blindness or in case his parents have a low income. If you are already enjoying other benefits like Social Security Disability Insurance or retirement benefits, you’d still be able to apply for Supplemental Security Income Program. When you enjoy SSI benefits, there are certain responsibilities that you hold. You must report any change in your household condition including: change in income of yours or your spouse’s
change in living conditions; death of any household members; change in citizenship or immigration status; if you plan to leave the country for a long time
improvement in medical condition; and change in eligibility for other benefits or payment.
How to Apply for SSI?
If you are interested in applying for SSI, you can visit the Social Security Administration’s official website to apply. A major part of the application process will be completed online. There is a tool on the website as well where you can express your interest in applying for the program. The initial process takes about 5-10 minutes and you will be required to provide the following information: name, date of birth, and Social Security number of the person applying for SSI. Also needed is the mailing address, phone number, and email address (optional) for the person applying.
After this online process is completed, a representative of them will schedule an appointment with you to help apply for the benefits. The appointment date and time will be provided by email within 7-14 business days. You can also receive a call in case your email address is not provided.
Once your SSI application is approved, you can receive the monthly benefits electronically. The benefits are usually transferred on the first day of every month. The payments will be made via direct deposit, the Direct Express card program, or an Electronic Transfer Account.
The monthly amount that you receive will depend on your living arrangement and your total income after tax. Although the basic SSI amount is the same everywhere, everyone does not receive the same amount. For instance, if your state contributes funds to the federal SSI program, you will receive more amount. For people who have other sources of income such as wages, pensions, or Social Security benefits will also receive. Furthermore, if someone else pays your household expenses or you live with a spouse who has a stable income, you will receive less amount.
SSI recipients will also get medical and food assistance. Some states also supplement the SSI benefit with additional payment. This depends on the state you are residing in.
How to Get Phone Support
The federal agency’s headquarters is located at 6401 Security Blvd, Baltimore, MD 21235, United States. You can locate an office nearest to you by zip code here. In case you are unable to apply online, you can call on the toll-free number 1-800-772-1213 to set up an appointment with your local Social Security office.
