Supplemental Security Income
If you’re unable to work due to a physical disability or mental health condition, you may wonder whether you qualify for Social Security Disability benefits or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
Basically, the difference between qualifying for SSD or SSI benefits is your work history. To be eligible for SSD benefits, you must have worked long enough, or recently enough, to have paid into the Social Security system.
If you can’t receive SSD benefits, you may qualify for SSI benefits. SSI benefits may include cash payments, medical coverage, or a combination of both. These benefits are provided to help those who are disabled – and who are not eligible for SSD benefits – meet basic needs, such as food, clothing, and housing.
Who is Eligible for SSI?
You may be eligible for SSI if you:
- Are disabled, have a low income and limited assets, and have never worked or haven’t worked long enough
- Are blind and have a low income and limited assets
- Are age 65 or older, have a disability, and have a low income and limited assets
- Are a child with a disability
Eligibility depends on your financial situation and whether you qualify under the Social Security regulations for SSI benefits. To qualify, you must meet one of the criteria above. You also must currently reside in the U.S. or meet other specific residence criteria. Both American citizens and legal alien residents of the U.S. can be eligible to receive SSI benefits.
Supplemental Security Income for Children
A child under age 18 is considered disabled if he or she:
- Has a physical or mental health condition that causes severe limitations and the ability to complete daily tasks
- Has a combination of medical conditions that causes severe limitations and the ability to complete daily tasks
- Has a medical condition that is expected to be fatal
- Has a medical condition that is expected to last 12 months straight or more
Children who are considered disabled by the Social Security Administration can receive SSI benefits if they have limited income and resources, or if they come from homes with limited income and assets.
Denied? Get Free Legal Help Today
Are you eligible for SSI benefits, but were denied? Do you have a child who should qualify for SSI, but have questions?
Contact Edgar Snyder & Associates today for a free legal evaluation. We win the majority of appeals for our clients, and we even can help you apply.
Call 1-866-9-4EDGAR (1-866-943-3427), or fill out the form at the right. And remember, there’s never a fee unless we get money for you, so you have nothing to lose.
For more information on Social Security disability benefits and Supplemental Security Income, check out our disability articles and resources.
