Supplemental Security Income (En español)
The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program provides monthly payments to adults and children with a disability or blindness who have income and
resources below specific financial limits. SSI payments are also made to people age 65 and older without disabilities who meet the financial qualifications. You may be eligible to receive SSI monthly payments even if you are already receiving Social Security Disability Insurance or retirement benefits. Tell us you want to apply or help someone
else to apply Get Started Apply By Phone Call us to make an appointment to file your application at 1-800-772-1213. If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you can call us at TTY 1-800-325-0778. Apply Online How SSI WorksHow to Apply
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More about the program
SSI is a Federal program funded by general tax revenues (not Social Security taxes). It provides monthly payments to meet basic needs for food, clothing, and shelter. The base monthly federal amount varies depending on your living arrangement and countable income.
Not everyone gets the same amount. You may get more if you live in a state that adds money to the federal SSI payment. You may get less if you have other income such as wages, pensions, or Social Security benefits. You may also get less if someone pays your household expenses or if you live with a spouse and he or she has income.
You may be able to get SSI if your resources are worth $2,000 or less. A couple may be able to get SSI if they have resources worth $3,000 or less.
Who is Eligible for SSI?
Anyone may apply for SSI. The SSI program provides monthly payments to people who:
- Are at least age 65 or blind or disabled.
- Have limited income (wages, pensions, etc.).
- Have limited resources (the things you own).
- Are U.S. citizens, nationals of the U.S., or some noncitizens.
- Reside in one of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, or the Northern Mariana Islands. Exception: The children of military parent(s) assigned to permanent duty outside the U.S. and certain students temporarily abroad may receive SSI payments outside the U.S.
Disability Home Frequently Asked Questions The Social Security and Supplemental Security Income disability programs are the largest of several Federal programs that provide assistance to people with disabilities. While these two programs are different in many ways, both are
administered by the Social Security Administration and only individuals who have a disability and meet medical criteria may qualify for benefits under either program. Social Security Disability Insurance pays benefits to you and certain members of your family if you are "insured," meaning that you worked long enough and paid Social Security taxes. Supplemental Security Income pays benefits based on financial need. Use the Benefits Eligibility Screening Tool to find out which programs may be able to pay you benefits. If your application has recently been denied, the Internet Appeal is a starting point to request a review
of our decision about your eligibility for disability benefits. If your application is denied for: The disability report asks you for updated information about your medical condition and any treatment, tests or doctor visits since we made our decision. Report fraud, waste and abuse
When you apply for either program, we will collect medical and other information from you and make a decision about whether or not you meet Social Security's definition of disability. Periodically, we will need updated information about your condition. You may receive a
Disability Update Report (SSA-455). This form can now be completed online.
More Information
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Information We Need About Your Work And Education
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Disability Claims Process Video Series