Basics
According to the Social Security Administration, more than seven million Americans have received Supplemental Security Insurance payments. Supplemental Security Insurance or Supplemental Security Income, also referred to as SSI, is a federal entitlement program that is funded by the government through revenue collected from general taxes and not through the Social Security system.
Application
Those interested in receiving SSI should apply at the local Social Security office. Much of the application for assistance can be completed online at SocialSecurity.gov. A Social Security card, proof of citizenship and birth certificate or other proof of age are required. Applicants also should be prepared to provide income statements, rental or mortgage bills, copies of insurance policies, car registration and doctors' names and contact information. Emergency funds may be provided right away, but most applicants must await approval from either the Social Security Administration or a state disability determination officer. Those who are denied payments can file an appeal within 60 days. Regular medical and income reviews are typically done for those receiving SSI.
Eligibility
SSI is designed to assist people with disabilities, aging Americans and the blind, with funds for basic needs such as food, housing and clothing. Income guidelines apply to Supplemental Security Insurance eligibility. Income levels are measured as any cash, gifts or money that can be used to purchase food and shelter, including earned and unearned funds. The maximum that a single individual could receive in unearned income, such as Social Security or veterans payments, to be eligible for SSI, is approximately $700 per month. A person earning as much as $1,433 per month could still receive SSI benefits because much of the earned income is discounted. To be eligible for SSI, an individual may not own any assets that are valued at more than $2,000. Certain resources are not counted as assets, such as a house, car, life insurance and educational scholarships or grants.
Payments
According to consultants at the Social Security Administration, the highest monthly payments to single individuals are $674 and $1,011 for a married couple. Oftentimes states that run the programs add to the final payments. States can manage payments directly or allow the federal government to manage the program. States must pay for the federal services if they utilize them. Note that federal SSI payments increase each year with a cost of living payment.
Citizenship
For the most part, only U.S. citizens can receive supplemental security insurance, with a few exceptions. In some cases, registered aliens who are U.S. residents can receive SSI. Sponsored non-citizens may be eligible for payments if their sponsor's income falls within SSI guidelines. People who receive SSI and leave the country are not eligible for payments while they are gone, with the exception of military dependents and those studying abroad.
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