How to Qualify for SSI
SSI, short for Supplemental Security income, is a U.S. social welfare program that provides money for the basic cost of living expenses for those who qualify. SSI is specifically aimed at individuals who are 65 years of age or older, legally blind and/or physically disabled. Any U.S. citizen who meets the qualifications and falls below the income guidelines can qualify for SSI. Even if you are gainfully employed, you may still qualify for SSI if you earn less than the maximum income requirements for the program.
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Instructions
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Be at least 65 years of age or older, be legally blind and/or be physically disabled for a 12-month consecutive period prior to applying or when the disability will prevent gainful employment for at least a 12-month consecutive period. If you are the parent or legal guardian of a child under the age of 18 who fits these guidelines, you may also qualify for SSI for your child.
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Be a U.S. citizen or an eligible non-citizen, and reside in one of the 50 U.S. states. Citizens under 18 who are dependant on a military parent living outside of the U.S. due to assignment and citizens who are students studying abroad may also qualify. You must have a valid Social Security number and proof of your SSN to qualify for SSI.
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Meet or fall below the income guidelines to qualify for SSI. Income guidelines are determined by the state and not at a federal level in order to factor in the cost of living. You can find your state's income guidelines on the Social Security Administration website, by calling the SSA or by calling or visiting your local Social Security office.
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Meet or fall below the resource guidelines to qualify for SSI. "Resources" are defined as any liquid asset that an individual or his spouse has access to, regardless of whether or not the spouse is applying for SSI. Resources can include bank account funds and real property, although the marital home and pre-paid funeral homes do not count towards the resource limit.
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Tips & Warnings
You are allowed to work or continue working while collecting SSI, so long as your income does not exceed your state's income requirements.
If you qualify for SSI, you may also qualify for other social welfare programs like Social Security, Medicaid/Medicare, food stamps and other cash assistance and benefits. Visit the Social Security Administration's website to learn more about what other benefits may be available to you through the government and check out your state's official website to find out more about state programs and benefits that you can apply for.
