- The Social Security Administration (SSA) oversees SSI, though SSI is not funded by Social Security taxes. Unlike Social Security Retirement or Disability Insurance (SSDI) SSI is not earned by paying into the Social Security system, but is a benefit given to people with very low income and few economic resources.
- To be classified as disabled under SSA rules, an adult must have a disability or illness that prevents him from working and earning enough money to support himself, and his prognosis must be that his disability will last 12 months or more or end in death. Children who receive SSI must likewise have a long-term disability or illness that significantly impairs their development and functioning.
- Your income and assets must be very low to qualify for SSI benefits. As of 2010, your assets (which includes things like savings accounts, but not your home) must be less than $2,000 if you are single, or $3,000 if you are married. Income limits vary by state, but SSI's national standards in 2010 set a limit on income earned from work at $1,433 for single adults and $2,107 for couples.
- You can apply for SSI over the phone or in person at your local SSA office. The SSA will tell you what documentation you need to apply, which can include your medical records and information about your finances. If you apply for SSI because of a disability, your initial application may be rejected. Don't get discouraged, as this happens to a lot of people. You have the right to appeal the SSA's decision, and can use the services of a lawyer or disability advocate to help you win your case.
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