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Program Description

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal income supplement program. General tax revenues fund the program, not Social Security taxes. The program has two main objectives:

  • To help those who are aged, blind, or disabled, and who have little or no income or resources.
  • To provide funds to meet basic needs for food, clothing, and shelter.

General Program Requirements

You may qualify for SSI if you meet the conditions below:

  • You are age 65 or older, blind, or have a disability.
  • You live in one of the 50 states, Washington D.C., 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.
  • You are a citizen or national of the United States.
  • You are a non-citizen who meets one of the requirements below:
    • You met the alien status requirements for benefits payable starting on August 22, 1996.
    • You were a lawful permanent resident of the U.S. or were just permanently living in the U.S., for benefits payable before August 22, 1996.
  • You have income and resources within stated limits.
  • You file an application.

The spouse of an eligible person may qualify if they also meet all the conditions above and live in the same household. Both people must file an application and meet all criteria to prove they are eligible as a couple.

Find answers to common questions about the program on the SSI Home page.

Application Process

Visit the SSI Application page for details on how to apply.

You can start your application online. We can also help you apply for SSI over the phone or in person at your local Social Security office. We suggest you make an appointment before you visit. If you visit without an appointment, your wait times will be longer.

To learn about Social Security benefits you may qualify for, use the SSA BEST (Benefit Eligibility Screening Tool). When you complete the questionnaire, you get a list of benefits to review. You can print this page for your records.

To apply for benefits, visit the Apply for Social Security Benefits page. You can also call to get benefit information and learn how to apply.

Last Updated: 05/03/2023