The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program is a needs-based initiative offered through the Social Security Administration (SSA). To be eligible for the SSI program, you must prove that you are unable to work due to a disability and that you have limited income and assets. People who are disabled, blind, and/or aged 65 or older may qualify for the SSI program.
Unlike Social Security Disability Insurance, SSI is not funded by payroll taxes. Instead, it is paid for by the general funds of the U.S. Treasury, including personal income taxes and corporate taxes. For this reason, you do not need to have paid into the system by working in order to qualify for SSI benefits.
If your application for SSI is approved, then you will receive a monthly benefit. This amount may vary from year to year based on cost of living adjustments (COLA). In 2024, the federal benefit rate per month is $943 for an individual or $1,415 for a couple. This rate may be lower based on your “countable” income.
You may also be eligible for an additional payment from your state, depending on where you live. You’ll receive your SSI payment on the first of the month, every month.
With SSDI, your monthly benefit is based in part on your earning history – the longer that you have worked and the more you have paid into the system, the greater your monthly benefit will be (subject to a maximum limit). However, because SSI isn’t based on paying into the system, you will receive the same amount regardless of your work history.
If you qualify for SSI, you may also be eligible for other types of assistance. This may include medical assistance (Medicaid) and food stamps (SNAP). If you have earned work credits, then you may also qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance.
The SSI application process can be overwhelming, especially if you are dealing with doctor’s appointments, therapy, and other issues related to your disability. An experienced SSI lawyer can help you with your disability claim, whether you are filing an initial application or are appealing a denial.
Qualifying for SSI Benefits
To be eligible for benefits under the SSI program, you must:
- Be disabled under the Social Security Administration’s definition;
- Meet the income and asset requirements of the SSI program;
- Be a U.S. citizen or noncitizen that qualifies for an exception; and
- File an application for disability benefits.
SSI benefits are available for people aged 65 or older, disabled individuals, and disabled children. The SSA uses the same process to determine if a person is disabled for both SSDI and SSI.
Have Questions? Contact an Experienced SSI Benefits Lawyer Today
The Supplemental Security Income program is intended to help people who truly need financial assistance due to the combination of disability, inability to work, and low income. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to successfully apply for SSI benefits because of the level of evidence required to prove that you meet the criteria. Our SSI benefits law firm will help you through the process. Bross & Frankel advocates for people with disabilities in New Jersey and Pennsylvania.
