Supplemental Security Income

The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal income supplement program authorized under Social Security Act. SSI was created in 1974 as a way to standardize the level of benefits people were getting from state programs. The SSI program is funded by general taxes from the U.S. Treasury general funds, rather than by Social Security tax. It is designed to help disabled individuals who have little or no income and is awarded on a need basis. SSI benefits provide money for basic needs like food, clothing, and shelter.

The SSI program generally follows the same disability criteria as the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits program, but SSI is based on a financial need. Earned work credits are not a requirement for SSI.

Anyone who is 65 or older, blind, or disabled may qualify. That individual’s income and resources must also fall below a specified level in order to qualify for SSI. The limits on a person’s income may vary based on the type of income earned, the person’s state of residence, the type of place they live in (such as a public institution) as well as the other people living in the person’s home. Talking to a local Social Security lawyer can help you understand local SSI eligibility laws.

You can apply for Supplemental Security Income benefits with your local Social Security office. You may be ineligible for SSI benefits if you fail to apply for any other benefits that you may be eligible for. Your state office of Disability Determination Services generally makes the decision as to whether someone is considered disabled and is eligible for disability benefits. These offices are state agencies that follow federal Social Security rules.

If you have questions about your eligibility for SSI or have been denied SSI benefits, you may want to talk to a Social Security Attorney. Total Social Security Law can get you in touch with a local Social Security lawyer who will work to protect your benefits. Simply fill out the free online Social Security case evaluation form and Total Social Security Law can quickly connect you to a local Social Security Lawyer today.