Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
U.S. Social Security Administration
What is Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program funded by U.S. Treasury general funds. The U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA) administers the program, but SSI is not paid for by Social Security taxes. SSI provides monthly payments to adults age 65 and older who have limited income and resources, and to other adults, and children, with a disability or blindness who have limited income and resources.
Administration
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is administered by U.S. Social Security Administration.
Program Requirements
To be eligiblefor this benefit program, you must meet all of the following requirements:
- Be disabled, blind, or age 65.
- Have limited income and resources.
- Be a U.S. citizen ornational or a lawfully permitted alien meeting additional requirements.
- Reside in one of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, or the Northern Mariana Islands, except for a child of military parent(s) assigned to permanent duty anywhere outside the United States or certain students temporarily abroad.
Other factors may affect your eligibility, including:
- Marital status.
- Income and resources of certain members in your household, like a spouse or a parent of a minor child.
If you would like to find out if you may be eligible for any of Social Security's benefit programs, use the Benefit Eligibility Screening Tool.
Once you have completed the eligibility screening questionnaire, you will be provided with a list of benefits for which you may be eligible. Print this page for your records before going to the application site.
Application Details
What is the application process for Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?
Visit the Apply For Social Security Benefits to apply online.