Many of us have heard of a disability program known as SSI, although we generally know very little about the program or even who might be entitled to receive disability benefits from this disability program.
Supplemental Security Income disability, or SSI, is a disability program that is based upon need. The SSI disability program was established in the early 1970s for individuals who have very little income and resources. In addition, children may be eligible to receive SSI benefits if they are disabled and their parents' income and resources are not over Social Security limits.
How do you file for SSI? Social Security uses the same filing process for both Social Security disability and SSI disability. This process begins with a Social Security disability interview at your local Social Security office in person or via telephone. The Social Security claims representative determines if you are eligible to file for SSI at this interview. They do this by reviewing your (and or your spouse's) income (earnings, short- or long-term disability benefits, unemployment benefits, etc.) and your resources (land, retirement plans, inheritance, trust funds, stocks, bonds, vehicles, and so on).
If the Social Security claims representative determines that you meet the income and resource criteria your disability claim is sent to a state agency for a medical determination. You can be approved for SSI disability benefits if you are found to medically disabled by Social Security rules and regulations.
Learn more about SSI eligibility requirements.
