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Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
What is Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?
SSI is a federal program for people with low income or capital who are 65 or
older, or have a disability. The program is paid by the general revenues of the
U.S. and, in states which supplement SSI, from state funds.
Who is eligible for SSI?
Only people who are 65 or older, blind or disabled and meet certain financial
criteria can receive SSI. For children with disabilities, eligibility
depends on household income.
What general criteria do I have to meet to
receive SSI?
- You must live in the U.S. or Northern
Mariana Islands.
- You must be a U.S. citizen or be in the U.S.
legally.
- If you're eligible for Social Security or
other benefits, you must apply for them. (You can get SSI and Social
Security checks if you're eligible for both.)
- If you're disabled, you must accept
vocational rehabilitation services if they're offered.
What financial criteria do I have to
meet to receive SSI?
Social Security looks at your income and what you own to determine your
eligibility. Income is money you receive for wages, Social Security checks, and
pensions; it also includes items you receive such as food, clothing, or shelter.
What you own can include real estate, personal belongings, bank accounts, cash,
and stocks and bonds.
Where do I have to live to receive SSI?
Your residence plays a role in determining whether you can receive SSI. If you
live in a city or county rest home, a halfway house, or other public
institution, you may not be able to receive SSI. There are some exceptions:
- If you're in a public or private institution and Medicaid is paying more
than half the cost of your care, you may get a small SSI check.
- If you live in a publicly operated community residence which serves no
more than 16 people, you may receive SSI.
- If you live in a public institution mainly to attend approved educational
or job training that will help you get a job, you may receive SSI.
- If you're living in a public emergency shelter for the homeless, you may
be able to receive SSI checks.
How do I apply for SSI?
Visit or call your local Social Security office. Have the following items on
hand when you apply:
- your Social Security card;
- your birth certificate;
- information about the home where you live, such as your mortgage or lease
and landlord's name;
- and payroll slips, bank books, insurance policies, car registration,
burial fund records and other information about your income and the things
you own.
Can I receive SSI and still use federal health care programs
(Medicare, Medicaid)?
Yes. In fact, most people who get SSI also get Medicaid. Contact your local
social services department for more information about this.
SSI Income and Benefits as of January 2006
Some Internet links to other SSI information sites:
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