Handling the complexities of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is challenging, but understanding who qualifies is the first step in the process and will save you a considerable amount of time and stress.

SSI is designed to help aged, blind, and disabled people who have little or no income. It gives individuals cash to meet their basic needs for food, clothing, and shelter.

Now let’s explore who qualifies for supplemental security income.

What is Supplemental Security Income?

SSI is a program administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA) that provides monthly payments to individuals who meet certain income and resource limits, and who are:

• Aged (65 or older),
• Blind, or
• Disabled (including children).

Income Requirements

SSI is intended for individuals with very limited income. This includes money you earn from work, money you receive from other sources like Social Security benefits, pensions, or help from family, and any programs that provide free food or shelter.

The SSA will consider your income and resources to determine if you qualify. The income limits vary by state and living arrangements, so it’s important to check the specifics in your area.

Resource Limits

To qualify for SSI, your total countable resources must be below $2,000 for an individual or $3,000 for a couple. Resources include things like:

• Cash,
• Bank accounts, stocks, and U.S. savings bonds,
• Land,
• Vehicles (other than the one you use for transportation),
• Personal property,
• Life insurance,
• Anything else you own that could be converted to cash and used for food or shelter.

Not all resources count towards these limits. For example, the home you live in and one vehicle (if used for transportation) are generally excluded.

Disability Requirements

For adults, being disabled means you have a medical condition that severely limits your ability to perform basic work—and that condition is expected to last at least one year or result in death.

For children, the disability must result in marked and severe functional limitations.

Applying for Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

Applying for SSI involves submitting an application to the SSA. You can start your application online, but you’ll need to complete it either in person or over the phone.

Be prepared to provide extensive documentation, including:

• Proof of age,
• Citizenship or legal residency documents,
• Income and resource records,
• Medical evidence of your disability.

Supplemental Security Income provides vital assistance to some of the most vulnerable populations.

Understanding the eligibility criteria is crucial if you think you or a loved one might qualify.

Handling the SSI application process is extremely hard for most individuals but luckily you don’t have to do it alone. 

If you need help determining eligibility, preparing your application, or appealing a denial, consider reaching out to Charlotte Disability Attorney Services. Our team is dedicated to helping you secure the benefits you deserve. Contact us today for expert assistance.