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Social Security Administration

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

SSI pays monthly cash to people with limited income and resources who are older, blind or have a disability.

How it's run
Federal program
State guides
51 of 51
Type of help
cash

SSI in your state

Income limits, apply links and local offices differ by state. Choose yours for the details.

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    About SSI

    What is SSI?

    Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program that pays monthly cash benefits to people with limited income and resources who are blind, age 65 or older, or have a qualifying disability. The Social Security Administration runs the program.

    Who qualifies

    You may qualify for SSI if you meet all three of these conditions:

    • You are age 65 or older, blind, or have a disability that stops you from working
    • Your resources are worth $2,000 or less (or $3,000 or less if you are part of a couple)
    • Your income is low enough

    What counts as resources includes cash, bank accounts, stocks, and property you own. Some things don't count, like your home or your car.

    What counts as income includes wages, benefits from other programs, and money from family members or others. SSI has strict rules about income limits, and some income doesn't count toward the limit.

    Applying is free. Only the Social Security Administration decides if you qualify.

    How much you get

    The federal SSI payment changes each year. Some states also add their own money on top of the federal amount. Your payment may be different depending on your income and where you live.

    Medicaid connection

    In most states, if you get SSI, you can also get Medicaid. Medicaid helps pay for doctor visits, hospital care, and other health services. Check your state's SSI page to learn what health benefits you may get.

    How to apply

    You can apply for SSI in three ways:

    • Call 1-800-772-1213 to make an appointment. If you are deaf or hard of hearing, call 1-800-325-0778.
    • Apply online at www.ssa.gov/ssi
    • Visit your local Social Security office in person

    Bringing documents with you speeds up the process. Have ready:

    • Your Social Security number
    • Birth certificate or proof of age
    • Proof of citizenship or immigration status
    • Bank statements and other proof of your resources
    • Pay stubs or other proof of income
    • Medical records if you are applying for disability or blindness
    • Your landlord's name and contact information if you rent

    What happens after you apply

    A Social Security worker will review your application and documents. They may ask you for more information. If you applied by phone or online, they will contact you to schedule an in-person visit if needed.

    The Social Security Administration will decide if you qualify. This can take several weeks.

    After you are approved

    If you are approved, the Social Security Administration will tell you:

    • How much your monthly payment will be
    • When your first payment arrives
    • If you qualify for Medicaid in your state

    You must report changes to the Social Security Administration. Tell them if:

    • Your income changes
    • Your living situation changes
    • You get a job or stop working
    • Your resources change
    • You move
    • Your marital status changes

    Failing to report changes can affect your benefits.

    Yearly renewal (continuing disability review)

    The Social Security Administration reviews your case regularly to make sure you still qualify. How often depends on whether your condition may improve. They will send you a notice telling you what information to send back by a certain date.

    Related programs

    If you get SSI, you may also qualify for other help:

    Visit your state's SSI page to learn what benefits are available where you live:

    SSI guides

    Related programs

    Extra HelpFederal · Social Security AdministrationExtra Help may lower what people with Medicare and limited income and resources pay for Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage.MSPState-run · Centers for Medicare & Medicaid ServicesMedicare Savings Programs help people with Medicare who have limited income and resources pay Medicare costs such as premiums.Property Tax ReliefState-run · State revenue departmentsMany states offer property tax relief that may lower property tax bills for some homeowners, such as older adults, people with disabilities and veterans.SSDIFederal · Social Security AdministrationSSDI pays monthly benefits to people who cannot work because of a disability and who have worked and paid Social Security taxes.

    Official sources

    1. Social Security Administration: SSI

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