Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

  • Definition: SSI is a federal program providing financial support to low-income individuals unable to work due to disability.
  • Non-Work Based: This program is specifically for those who do not have enough taxable earnings/work credits to qualify for SSDI.
  • Qualification 1 (Medical): Applicants must provide documented medical evidence proving their condition prevents specific work activities.
  • Qualification 2 (Financial): Applicants must meet federal poverty guidelines regarding limited monthly household income.
  • Alternative Option: If an individual exceeds the SSI income limits but has worked 5 of the last 10 years, they may still qualify for the SSDI program.

What is SSI?

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program designed to provide financial support to low-income people who are unable to work due to a disability.  This program is available for disabled individuals who do not have enough taxable earnings to qualify for the Social Security Disability (SSDI) program.  If you have worked at least five out of the last ten years and paid into the Social Security system, then you will want to pursue Social Security Disability (SSDI) benefits.


Do I qualify for SSI?

SSI benefits are paid to disabled individuals that do not qualify for SSDI.  You should consider applying if you meet these qualifications:

1.   Do you have a medical condition that prevents you from working?

  • You must provide documented evidence of how your condition prevents specific work activities
  • An experienced professional can guide you through this part of the process

2.   Do you meet the federal poverty guidelines?

  • You must have limited monthly household income
  • You can still apply for SSDI if you exceed the monthly household income limit

If you meet both qualifications, contact our office for a free evaluation to determine if you are entitled to SSI disability income. If you don’t meet federal poverty guidelines, you can still qualify for disability income through the SSDI Program.