WHAT IS AN SSI BENEFIT? WHO CAN GET IT?

SSI stands for "Supplemental Security Income" and it's a type of welfare for the elderly or disabled.

SSI differs from Social Security disability (SSDI) in several ways:

1)  SSI has severe restrictions on household income and financial resources.  If someone in your household earns a little too much or has too much in savings, you can't qualify.  (There are no income restrictions for Social Security disability).

2)  SSI does not require any work credits or work history to get a benefit.

3)  To receive SSI, you must have either reached retirement age OR be medically disabled.  You must also meet the income and resource restrictions.

4)  The maximum monthly benefit for SSI is currently $755.  The maximum benefit for Social Security disability is over 3 times that amount.

How are the medical disability requirements for SSI different from those of Social Security disability (SSDI)?  Actually, the medical requirements are exactly the same.  If you are medically disabled for SSI, you will be medically disabled for SSDI as well.  Only the financial requirements are different.

Other than household income, what other financial facts are considered for SSI?  The answer, your living or housing arrangement will be considered.  Usually, if someone is providing you with a place to live at no cost, this will reduce your SSI monthly benefit by up to one-third.

How does a person apply for Supplemental Security Income?  If you want to check on your eligibility for SSI or file an application, call your local Social Security office.  SSI is processed by the Social Security Administration, although it is not the same program as Social Security disability.