Step 1: Check Your Eligibility for SSI

Before applying for SSI, you need to make sure you meet the eligibility requirements. The basic criteria include:

• Disability or Age: You must be 65 or older, or you must be blind or disabled. If applying due to disability, the condition must prevent you from working for at least 12 months or be expected to result in death.
• Limited Income and Resources: SSI is for individuals with limited income and resources. Your income and assets must fall below the threshold set by the Social Security Administration (SSA). As of 2025, the income limit is around $1,913 per month for individuals and $2,843 per month for couples, and you must have less than $2,000 in resources as an individual and **$3,000 as a couple.
• U.S. Citizenship or Qualified Non-Citizen Status: You must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen (e.g., legal permanent resident).

Step 2: Gather the Necessary Documents

To apply for SSI, you'll need to provide some important documents, including:

• Social Security number (yours and, if applicable, your spouse’s)
• Proof of age (birth certificate, passport, or other government-issued documents)
• Proof of U.S. citizenship or legal residency status
• Income and financial resources documentation (pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements, etc.)
• Medical records (if you're applying due to disability)
• Bank account information (for direct deposit)

Having all the necessary documentation ready will help speed up the application process.

Step 3: Apply for SSI

You can apply for SSI in several ways:

Online Application

If you are between 18 and 65 years old and are applying due to a disability, you can apply online through the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) website. Here’s how:

• Visit the SSA’s SSI Application Page.
• Create an account or log in if you already have one.
• Complete the application by answering questions about your medical condition, income, and financial resources.

By Phone

If you prefer to apply over the phone or if you cannot apply online, you can call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778 for hearing impaired) and speak with a representative to begin the application process.

In Person

If you're applying based on age, need more assistance, or want to submit documentation in person, you can apply at your local Social Security office. Find your nearest office by using the SSA’s office locator: SSA Office Locator.

• Call ahead to schedule an appointment to reduce wait times.

Step 4: Fill Out the SSI Application Forms

The application forms will ask for information about your:

• Personal information (name, address, birthdate)
• Work history (for disability applicants)
• Income and resources (bank statements, assets, etc.)
• Medical information (for disability applicants)
• Living arrangements and any other relevant personal details.

Fill out these forms completely and accurately. Incomplete or inaccurate information can delay the process.

Step 5: Submit Your Application

Once you have completed your application, submit it either online, by phone, or in person. Ensure you provide all the required documentation along with your application. The SSA will review your information and notify you of any missing documents or steps needed to complete your claim.

Step 6: Wait for a Decision

After submitting your application, the SSA will review your case and decide whether you qualify for SSI benefits. The processing time for an SSI application can take anywhere from 2 to 4 months. During this time, the SSA will evaluate your eligibility, considering your age, income, medical condition, and other factors.

• If approved, you will receive a letter from the SSA outlining your benefit amount and start date.
• If denied, you will also receive a letter explaining why your application was denied.

Step 7: Appeal if Your SSI Claim is Denied

If your SSI claim is denied, you have the right to appeal. The SSA will provide instructions on how to appeal, and the process involves several stages:

• Request for Reconsideration: SSA will review your case again, and you can provide additional evidence to support your claim.
• Hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ): If the reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing where you’ll present your case to a judge.
• Appeals Council Review: If the ALJ denies your case, you can request a review by the SSA Appeals Council.
• Federal Court: As a final step, you may take your case to federal court if necessary.