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Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a Federal supplemental income program funded by general tax revenues (not Social Security taxes): (1) It is designed to help aged, blind, and disabled people, who have little or no income; and (2) it provides cash to meet basic needs for food, clothing, and shelter.


Who can get Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?

To get SSI, you must be age 65 or older or blind or disabled. Blind means you are either totally blind or have very poor eyesight. Children as well as adults can get benefits because of blindness.

Disabled means you have a physical or mental problem that keeps you from working and is expected to last at least a year or to result in death. Children as well as adults can get benefits because of disability. When deciding if a child is disabled, Social Security looks at how his or her disability affects everyday life.

Sometimes, a person whose sight is not poor enough to qualify for benefits as a blind person may be able to get benefits as a disabled person if his or her condition prevents him or her from working.

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Can children get Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?

Yes, if they qualify, they can get SSI Benefits For Children. These are benefits payable to disabled children under age 18 who have limited income and resources, or who come from homes with limited income and resources.

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How much money can I get?

It depends on where you live. The basic SSI amount is the same nationwide. However, many states add money to the basic benefit. You can call SSA toll free number 1-800-772-1213 to find out the amounts for your state.

Other Help:

If you get SSI, you may also be able to get other help from your state or county. For example, you may be able to get Medicaid, Food Stamps or some other social services like Welfare.

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How can I apply for Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?

Just visit your local Social Security office. You can find the closest office to you by clicking here. Or call SSA toll free number 1-800-772-1213 for an appointment with a Social Security representative who will help you apply. Parents or guardians can apply for blind or disabled children under age 18.

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What should I bring before I apply?

You should have the following things before you apply. Even if you don't have all of the things listed, apply anyway. The people in the Social Security office can help you get whatever is needed. Please bring:

  • Your Social Security card or a record of your Social Security number
  • Your birth certificate or other proof of your age
  • Information about the home where you live, such as your mortgage or your lease and landlord's name
  • Payroll slips, bank books, insurance policies, burial fund records and other information about your income and the things you own
  • If you're applying for disability, bring the names, addresses and telephone numbers of doctors, hospitals and clinics that have seen you
  • Proof of U.S. citizenship or eligible noncitizen status
  • You also should bring your checkbook or other papers that show your bank, credit union or financial institution account number so we can have your benefits deposited directly into your account. Direct deposit protects benefits from loss, theft and mail delay. The money is always on time and ready to use without making a trip to the bank.

Remeber that your personal information is safe with Social Security. The information of millions of people is kept personal and confidential.

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What should I do if my Supplemental Security Income (SSI) application is denied?

If your application is denied, you may appeal the Social Security Administration's decision. To find out more information about the appeals process, visit our Social Security appeals page by clicking here.

You can also find more information about Supplemental Security Income (SSI) in Spanish by clicking here.

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