Qualifications for Supplemental Security Income Benefits

Basic Eligibility for SSI

To qualify for SSI, applicants must meet specific criteria set by the Social Security Administration (SSA). These include both non-medical and medical factors:

Age, Disability, or Blindness:

• You must be 65 or older, or
• You must be blind, or
• You must have a disability that prevents you from working and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.

*Disabilities are assessed based on how they affect your ability to perform daily activities and engage in substantial gainful activity (SGA).

Income and Resources:

SSI is for individuals with limited financial means. As such, your income and resources must fall below a certain threshold.

Income includes wages, social security benefits, and other forms of monetary assistance.

Resources are assets such as savings, property, and investments. Generally, an individual’s resources must be below $2,000, while a couple’s resources must be below $3,000.

Residency and Citizenship:

To qualify for SSI benefits, you must be a U.S. citizen or a qualifying non-citizen. You must also reside in one of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, or the Northern Mariana Islands.

Special Considerations for SSI Eligibility

When applying for SSI, some special considerations may affect your eligibility or the benefits you receive.

1. Work History: Unlike Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), SSI does not require a specific work history or a certain number of work credits. This makes SSI a good option for those who have never worked or have a limited work history.
2. Living Arrangement: The SSA will assess your living arrangements as part of your application. If you live with others and do not pay for your own food or shelter, your SSI benefits may be reduced.
3. Blindness and Disability Determinations: When applying for SSI based on disability or blindness, the SSA evaluates your condition against its Listing of Impairments. This includes a wide range of conditions such as physical disabilities, mental health disorders, and sensory impairments. If your condition does not meet the criteria in the SSA’s listings, you may still qualify if your condition prevents you from working and significantly limits your daily activities.

How Our SSI Attorneys Can Help

Navigating the SSI application process can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with complex eligibility requirements. At First Ally Law Group, our experienced SSI attorneys specialize in assisting individuals in Ballwin and surrounding areas with their SSI claims.

We are dedicated to ensuring that our clients meet the necessary qualifications for benefits and receive the full support they deserve. If your SSI claim has been denied or you need help understanding the eligibility requirements, we are here to guide you every step of the way.

Contact Us for a Free Consultation

If you are unsure whether you qualify for SSI benefits, our disability attorneys in Ballwin, MO are here to help. We can help you understand your eligibility and assist with your application. First Ally Law Group is committed to providing compassionate assistance and ensuring our clients receive the best possible outcome for their cases. Reach out today for a free consultation.