Step 1: Determine If You’re Eligible for SSI

Before you apply for SSI, it's essential to determine whether you meet the program’s eligibility criteria. The basic requirements are:

• Age or Disability: You must be at least 65 years old, or if you are under 65, you must be blind or disabled.
• Limited Income and Resources: You must have limited income and resources. As of 2025, the maximum resource limit is $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple. This includes things like cash, bank accounts, and property (with some exceptions).
• U.S. Citizenship or Legal Residency: You must be a U.S. citizen or an eligible noncitizen.
• Residency: You must live in the U.S. or the Northern Mariana Islands to receive SSI benefits.

If you meet these eligibility criteria, you can proceed with your application.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

To apply for SSI, you’ll need to collect various documents that verify your identity, financial situation, and medical condition (if applicable). Some of the necessary documents include:

• Proof of Age: Birth certificate or other government-issued ID.
• Proof of U.S. Citizenship or Legal Residency: Passport, birth certificate, or green card.
• Income Information: Pay stubs, tax returns, or any other proof of income.
• Resource Information: Documentation of savings, bank accounts, property, or other assets.
• Medical Records: If applying for disability-based SSI, you will need medical records showing your disability, such as doctor’s reports, test results, and treatment history.
• Work History: If applicable, proof of work history, including your Social Security number and employment records.

Having these documents prepared in advance will help speed up the application process.

Step 3: Apply for SSI Benefits

There are a few ways to apply for SSI benefits:

• Online: The easiest way to apply is through the Social Security Administration (SSA) website. You can fill out the online application for SSI at www.ssa.gov.
• By Phone: You can also apply over the phone by calling the SSA at 1-800-772-1213. The SSA will schedule an appointment for you to complete your application.
• In Person: If you prefer to apply in person, you can visit your local Social Security office. To find the nearest office, visit the SSA website or call the number listed above.

The online application is generally the fastest and most convenient method. However, if you need assistance, a phone or in-person application may be a better option.

Step 4: Wait for a Decision on Your Application

After you submit your application, the SSA will review your case. This process can take several months (often 3-5 months or longer), as the SSA evaluates your eligibility, medical records, income, and other factors.

• SSI Approval: If you’re approved, you will receive a Notice of Award from the SSA, detailing the amount of benefits you will receive each month.
• SSI Denial: If your application is denied, you can appeal the decision. Many applicants are initially denied SSI, but with additional documentation or legal assistance, you may be able to successfully appeal.

Step 5: Understand How Payments Work

Once approved for SSI, you will begin receiving monthly payments to help cover your basic needs. Your payment amount will depend on several factors, including:

• Living situation: If you live independently, you may receive the full SSI benefit amount. However, if you live in a group home or someone else provides care, your benefit amount may be reduced.
• Income: If you have any additional income, your SSI benefits may be reduced. The SSA uses a countable income formula to determine how much income will affect your benefits. Some income is excluded, such as the first $20 of monthly income and the first $65 of earned income.

Step 6: Report Any Changes in Your Circumstances

Once you begin receiving SSI benefits, it’s important to report any changes to the SSA. These changes could affect your eligibility or the amount of your benefits. You must report changes in:

• Income: If you start working or earn additional income.
• Living situation: If you move or change your housing situation.
• Medical condition: If your disability improves or worsens, you need to inform the SSA.
• Marital status: If you get married or divorced, your benefits may be affected.

Failure to report changes can lead to overpayment or underpayment of benefits, and you may be required to pay back any overpaid amount.

Step 7: Renewing Your SSI Benefits

In some cases, the SSA may periodically review your situation to determine if you still meet the eligibility requirements for SSI. This is known as a continuing disability review. If your condition improves or your income increases significantly, you may lose eligibility for SSI benefits. On the other hand, if your condition worsens, your benefits may be increased.

Make sure to provide the SSA with updated information on your condition and financial situation when requested.