For many Americans living with a disability, monthly disability benefits simply do not cover the cost of living. Rising rents, utility bills, food costs, transportation expenses, and healthcare costs can make it difficult to make ends meet. If your disability income is not enough to pay your monthly expenses, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) may provide additional financial assistance.
What Is SSI?
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program administered by the Social Security Administration. The program provides monthly cash payments to disabled individuals, blind individuals, and seniors with limited income and resources.
Unlike Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), SSI is based on financial need. Many individuals who receive a small SSDI benefit may also qualify for SSI if their income and assets fall within program limits.
Can You Receive SSDI and SSI Together?
Yes. Some individuals qualify for both SSDI and SSI benefits. This is often referred to as receiving concurrent benefits.
For example, a person may receive a small SSDI payment based on a limited work history. If that SSDI benefit is below certain income thresholds and the individual meets SSI eligibility requirements, SSI may supplement the SSDI payment.
This additional assistance can help recipients better afford basic necessities.
Who May Qualify for SSI?
To qualify for SSI, an individual generally must:
- Be disabled, blind, or age 65 or older.
- Have limited income.
- Have limited financial resources.
- Be a U.S. citizen or meet certain non-citizen requirements.
- Reside in the United States or certain U.S. territories.
The Social Security Administration reviews both income and assets when determining eligibility.
What Resources Count Toward SSI Limits?
Examples of resources that may affect SSI eligibility include:
- Cash in bank accounts.
- Stocks and bonds.
- Additional vehicles.
- Certain property other than a primary residence.
However, a person's primary home and one vehicle are often excluded from resource calculations.
How SSI Can Help
SSI benefits can provide additional monthly income to help pay for:
- Rent or mortgage payments.
- Utilities.
- Groceries.
- Transportation.
- Personal care needs.
- Household expenses.
In many states, SSI recipients may also automatically qualify for Medicaid coverage, which can significantly reduce healthcare costs.
Additional Benefits Available to SSI Recipients
Receiving SSI may also help individuals qualify for other assistance programs, including:
- SNAP food assistance.
- Housing assistance programs.
- Utility assistance programs.
- Prescription drug assistance.
- Transportation services.
- Community support programs.
These additional resources can help stretch a limited monthly budget further.
How to Apply for SSI
Individuals can apply for SSI through the Social Security Administration by phone, online when available, or by scheduling an appointment at a local Social Security office.
Applicants should gather important documents such as:
- Medical records.
- Income information.
- Bank account statements.
- Identification documents.
- Housing expense information.
Providing complete and accurate information can help avoid delays during the application process.
Final Thoughts
Many disabled individuals struggle financially because disability benefits alone are not enough to cover today's living expenses. If you are having difficulty paying your bills each month, Supplemental Security Income may provide additional financial support. SSI was designed to help disabled individuals with limited income maintain a basic standard of living. Exploring SSI eligibility and other assistance programs may help improve your financial stability and reduce the stress of living on a fixed income.