WHAT IS SSI?

SSI stands for Supplemental Security Income.  It is a federal program administered by Social Security; however, it is not the same as Social Security Disability.  You may qualify for SSI if you

  • are blind or disabled to work
  • have very low household income
  • have few resources that can be converted to cash
Generally, to be eligible for SSI, an individual may not have more than $2,000 in personal resources.  A couple may have up to $3,000.  Certain resources, such as the home you live in, a burial plot, and one automobile may be exempt as a resource (will not against you).  Resources will include such things as cash in checking or savings accounts, retirement funds that you can withdraw, cash value built up in life insurance policies, stocks or bonds and other investments. Your local Social Security office can give you more details about SSI qualifications.

SSI is referred to as "Title 2" but Social Security disability is called "Title XVI."  SSI benefits are paid from the US Treasury but Title 2 disability benefits are paid from the Social Security Trust Fund.

Other differences:
  • You must have enough quarters of work to be eligible for disability insurance.  If you never worked you aren't covered by Social Security disability insurance.
  • You need no work credits to qualify for SSI benefits.
  • The amount of benefit under Title 2 depends on your average earnings.
  • The federal maximum for SSI is currently set at $698 per month.
  • There is no restriction on how much "resources" you may have to get Social Security disability benefits under Title 2.  However, if you are under "full retirement age," there is a restriction on income from work while receiving disability benefits.
Non-medical qualifications for SSI include such things as US citizenship, income and resources below the maximum level, living arrangements, etc.  (If you live with a family member and do not pay a share of living expenses, such as food, rent/mortgage or utilities, your benefit may be reduced for "in kind" income).

Contact your local Social Security office for more details or to apply for SSI benefits.




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