WHAT IS SSI?

There are two programs administered by the US Social Security Administration.  Besides SSDI, also called Title 2 disability, SSA administers "Supplemental Security Income," or SSI.

SSI is quite different from Title 2 or "regular Social Security disability."  Here are a few unique facts about SSI that do not apply to Title 2 or "SSDI" claims.

With SSI
  • There is no requirement that you have worked before or earned "quarters of coverage."
  • You must have strictly limited resources and monthly income to get SSI.
  • The federal basic or maximum benefit for 2013 is $710 for individuals, $1160 for couples.
  • You cannot receive benefits for periods prior to the date of application.
  • There is no five-month waiting period.  You can begin to receive benefits in the month following your application if approved.
  • Social Security will consider living arrangements along with resource and income levels to determine your eligibility for SSI.
The medical portion of an SSI claim is essentially the same as for SSDI (Title 2).  You must prove that you are unable to work due to a severe medical impairment that is expected to last for at least 12 consecutive months.  A medical impairment may be for either physical or mental conditions, or a combination of both.

Many SSI claims are also denied at the initial application level and require a hearing to win.  The initial decision on SSI claims is made by the same state agency that makes the initial decision on SSDI claims.  The medical requirements are the same.

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