Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is federally funded to provide supplemental income to those in need. Supplemental Security Income should not be mistaken for Social Security Disability Income (SSDI). SSDI is calculated based on years worked, taxes paid to Social Security and does not factor in age. SSI benefits help individuals who are aged, blind or disabled who have little or no income or resources. Typically these funds are utilized to meet basic needs for food, clothing and shelter.

Not everyone is eligible to receive SSI benefits. There are major conditions and requirements that need to be met in order to receive this type of income payment. This includes being of 65 years of age or older and/or disabled. There are several ways in which you can apply for supplemental security income such as online, over the phone or in person. This manual outlines what SSI is, who may be eligible and how to apply.

What is SSI or Supplemental Security Income?

SSI is a federally funded program to support those in need who are unable to meet certain life necessities such as food, shelter or clothing. Before learning about the SSI eligibility requirements, you should understand what this program is and how it works.

Basically, SSI eligible individuals receive monthly cash payments based on the statutory federal benefit rate. The US government has ensured SSI resources be based on the cost of living. Anyone receiving these payments may still receive income through other sources. These amounts are configured into each payment.

In other words, the higher your other income sources, the lower your SSI benefits will be. Below are the income sources included when calculating SSI payment:

• Any food stamps received
• Income tax refund
• Paper or local government assistance outside of SSI
• Small amounts of income received infrequently
• Dividends and interest
• Grants and scholarships
• Disaster assistance
• Some trust fund payments

Anyone who meets the requirements for SSI should research how other income sources affect the total benefit payments they will receive. More Medicare information can be found by downloading this guide.

Who meets requirements for SSI?

SSI requirements range. However, it is pretty straightforward on who can apply for these types of benefits. This government-funded program analyzes your overall income sources, age and/or disabilities. General SSI eligibility requirements include the following:

• You must be age 65 or older, blind and/or disabled
• You must live within the United States
• You must be a citizen or national of the U.S.
• Your income or other resources must be within SSI income limits

If you are a noncitizen, then you are still eligible to receive SSI benefits if you meet one of the following requirements:

• You must meet alien status starting on August 22, 1996
• You are a permanent resident of U.S. or permanently living in the U.S. before August 22, 1996

Applicants younger than 65 years of age may still be eligible depending on their disability. The applicant’s impairment must prevent him or her from performing their job or the applicant is unable to receive gainful employment due to the disability. This must be true over a 12-month period or more.

How are SSI benefits calculated?

Each applicant must meet certain SSI household income limits before benefits can be received. SSI assists low-income individuals, and the Social Security Administration (SSA) will calculate the monthly payment based on income sources. First, the SSA collects all income sources and discards income they deem “uncountable”. Then your “countable income” is subtracted from the SSI federal benefit rate. This total will equal your SSI benefit amount. Ultimately, the difference between your “countable income” and the federal benefit equals your monthly amount.

Any disabled or blind children younger than 18 years of age who are living with the parent or guardian can qualify as well. At the time of submitting an SSI application, the SSA may include a portion of the parent’s income when calculating the child’s monthly benefit.

How to Apply for SSI

You may apply for SSI in benefits several different ways. The quickest and easiest way is to apply online by answering questions regarding your personal income and medical situation. When you are ready to apply for SSI, have the following documents handy:

• Proof of Social Security Number – Provide them your official Social Security card
• Proof of age – Such as a birth certificate or other document showing your date of birth
• Citizenship – This includes a birth certificate, religious record of birth her baptism, naturalization certificate or U.S. passport
• Proof of income – Be prepared to bring payroll stubs or tax returns for the self-employed. If you have unearned income passive income, then bring your award letters, bank statements or other receipts showing how much you earn and how often
• Proof of income resources – Provide documents such as bank statements or insurance policies for SSI eligibility if you have other income resources
• Proof of living arrangements – Provide information regarding overall household costs and expenses, including rental receipts or even a property tax bill
• Medical sources – This is applicable if filing for blind or disabled benefits, as you must bring any type of medical report showing your disability as well as doctor information, particularly when claiming SSI for children
• Work history – Prepare a document with job titles, name and employer, dates work, etc.

Keep in mind, if you have fluctuating income sources, then you are required to complete a monthly SSI wage reporting call. By doing so, your monthly allowance can change.

If you are more comfortable or have questions regarding SSI benefits, then it may be beneficial to contact the Social Security Administration directly. If further help is needed, then appointments can be made to finish your application in person. It is not required to make an appointment with your local Social Security office. However, you might experience longer wait times.

How can Medicare recipients use SSI benefits?

Since SSI benefits revolve around those who are low income and/or disabled (depending on age), it is possible to be eligible for Medicare as well. You may qualify for SSI if you already receive Medicare and your income and resources are limited. If approved, then the state in which you reside will handle your Medicare premiums through your SSI benefit. It is in the patient’s best interest to contact the state or county that handles any Medicare savings program to see if you qualify.

To learn about Medicare requirements, download this easy-to-understand guide.