Supplemental Security Income is a program that pays monthly cash benefits to children and adults who are blind or disabled, and who do not own much or have a low income. Qualified applicants also receive Medicaid insurance.

 

To receive supplemental security income, persons must have a medically documented condition that keeps them from performing gainful activities and will last at least 12 months or to result in death. The medical eligibility for SSI is the basis for eligibility for many programs.

 

Call to make an appointment or to be sent an application, Toll Free 1-800-772-1213, or visit the web site:

http://www.ssa.gov

 

 

These documents are often needed for SSI application (not copies):

· Social Security Number for child;

· Proof of age (copy of birth records, birth certificate);

· Proof of citizenship or immigration status, if necessary, (green card, visa, passport, immigration or naturalization paper);

· Information about your child’s disability or blindness such as Karyotype/Genetic report or Disability Diagnoses report (The more complete the medical information, the better the chances of a quick result);

· Earned income records (Wage stubs, or self-employed tax return showing records for past 3 or 4 months);

· Information about resources you could turn to cash (Bank statements for checking and savings accounts, saving bonds, stock certificates, and life insurance policies);

 

Ask if additional information is needed. DON’T WAIT TO APPLY-even if you do not have all documents.

Strengthening Families:

Resources for Partnering for

Healthy Development of Children and Youth