Age, Blindness, or Disability

To be eligible for SSI, you must meet one of the following conditions:

• 65 Years or Older: Individuals who are 65 or older and have limited income and resources may qualify for SSI benefits, even if they do not have a disability.
• Blindness: If you are legally blind, meaning your vision cannot be corrected to better than 20/200 in your better eye, you may qualify for SSI benefits. The SSA considers this condition severe enough to prevent individuals from working.
• Disability: If you are unable to work due to a physical or mental condition that is expected to last for at least 12 months or result in death, you may be eligible for SSI benefits. The SSA requires medical evidence to prove your disability.

Income and Resource Limits

Your income and resources play a significant role in determining your eligibility for SSI. The SSA has strict limits on how much income and resources you can have to qualify.

• Income: The SSA takes into account all sources of income, including wages, Social Security benefits, pensions, and other forms of support. For 2025, the monthly income limit for an individual is typically $1,000 (this can vary based on factors like living arrangements).
• Resources: Resources include things like cash, bank accounts, real estate, and other personal property. For 2025, the resource limit is $2,000 for individuals and $3,000 for couples. However, certain resources such as your primary home and car are excluded from this calculation.

If your income and resources are within these limits, you may be eligible for SSI benefits.

U.S. Citizenship and Residency Requirements

To qualify for SSI, you must be a U.S. citizen, national, or a qualified alien. You must also reside in the United States or the Northern Mariana Islands. There are some exceptions for people who are lawfully residing in the U.S. but have limitations on receiving SSI if they are not U.S. citizens.

Work History and Social Security Credits

Unlike Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), SSI does not require a specific work history or Social Security credits. SSI eligibility is primarily based on financial need rather than your employment history or contributions to Social Security.

Children and SSI Eligibility

Children under the age of 18 can also qualify for SSI benefits if they are disabled or blind and meet the income and resource limits. The SSA reviews the child’s medical condition and considers whether the disability or blindness limits the child’s ability to function as expected for their age.

How to Apply for SSI

If you think you are eligible for SSI benefits, here’s how to apply:

• Apply Online: You can apply online through the SSA’s website at www.ssa.gov.
• Call the SSA: You can also call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 to start the application process or ask questions about eligibility.
• Visit Your Local SSA Office: You can apply in person by visiting your nearest SSA office.

During the application process, you’ll need to provide proof of income, medical records, and other personal information. The more detailed your documentation, the better.