Social Security is often hailed as one of the most beloved government programs in the nation. When you hit the age of 62, you become eligible to start receiving financial support from the federal government in most cases. If offers programs such as the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).
However, while the primary form of Social Security is well-known and cherished, there are other aspects that frequently go unnoticed. To remedy this, the Social Security Administration has launched a campaign to encourage those who qualify to apply for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). It’s all about making sure that every eligible individual can access the support they need.
The SSA is inviting eligible individuals to apply for the SSI benefits
Social Security Administration Senior Advisor, Abigail Zapote, told in a recent interview that the entity is asking eligible people that haven’t requested the SSI benefits to apply for them, since it’s a right they’ve earned along the years. At the same time, Social Security Acting Commissioner Kilolo Kijakazi stated that “helping eligible people access critical benefits, including SSI, is part of Social Security’s core mission”.
Regarding this, it’s also important that you get to know how to apply for the SSI benefits. Before you begin your application, verify whether you meet the eligibility criteria. SSI is designed to assist both adults and children who have limited income and resources, and who either have a disability, are blind, or are 65 years of age or older.
If you fall into these categories, you can now start your application process, as follows:
- Apply online for disability benefits on the official SSA website, here.
- If you’re more willing to do it by phone, call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 (or TTY 1-800-325-0778 if you are deaf or hard of hearing) to make an appointment to apply for SS. In these last cases, have someone else call and make the appointment.
- If you need a face-to-face help, contact your local Social Security office to schedule a telephone appointment to file for SSI benefits.
Throughout the application procedure, you’ll be kindly requested to furnish some fundamental details. This includes your full name, date of birth, Social Security number, mailing address, phone number, and email address.
How much will it take for an answer to come from the SSA?
Once you’ve successfully completed the application, either way you selected to do it, a representative from the SSA will arrange an appointment to assist you in applying for the benefits you require. The specific date and time for this appointment will be conveniently communicated to you via postal mail, and if you’ve provided an email address, you’ll receive an email notification as well. This typically occurs within a span of 7 to 14 business days.
During this scheduled appointment, the SSA will be there to facilitate the process for you. They will guide you through the application forms, using the information you’ve provided, and ensure that you have all the necessary documents to demonstrate your eligibility for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Their aim is to make this process as smooth and efficient as possible for you.
What is the difference between SSI and SSDI?
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) are both federal-run initiatives aimed at extending financial support to individuals with disabilities. SSI, standing as a needs-based program, extends financial aid to individuals with low incomes who are either disabled, visually impaired, or aged 65 or above. Eligibility for SSI hinges on the individual’s income and assets, with the monthly benefit amount varying from one state to another. SSI beneficiaries may also qualify for additional assistance, such as Medicaid, to alleviate healthcare expenses.
In the other hands, SSDI operates as an insurance program catering to individuals who have actively participated in the workforce and contributed to the Social Security system, but find themselves incapacitated to continue working due to a disability. To be eligible for SSDI, individuals must have accrued a specific number of work credits, dependent on their work history. The quantity of SSDI benefits is related to the individual’s earnings history, and recipients also become eligible for Medicare following a waiting period. Unlike SSI, SSDI eligibility is entirely independent of income or assets.