What is Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a needs-based program for children and adults with disabilities who need financial support. If your child meets the medical and financial eligibility requirements, they may receive monthly payments and medical insurance through Social Security.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) operates two disability benefits programs. When applying for disability benefits for your child, it is important to understand the difference between Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).SSI eligibility is based on disability (or age 65+) and limited income and resources.
SSI can help individuals meet basic needs such as:
- Food
- Clothing
- Shelter
What is Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)?
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) provides benefits to individuals with disabilities who have a qualifying work history.
Work credits may be earned:
- Through your own employment, or
- In some cases, through a parent’s or spouse’s work record
Key Differences Between SSI and SSDI
| SSI | SSDI |
| Needs-based program | Work-credit-based program |
| Based on disability (or age 65+) and limited income/resources | Based on disability and sufficient work history |
| Funded by general tax revenues | Funded through Social Security payroll taxes |
How Do I Know If I’m Eligible for SSI?
Before applying, you can use the Social Security Administration’s Benefit Eligibility Screening Tool (BEST) to see what benefits you may qualify for.
Information SSA may ask you to provide:
- Information about your condition
- Names and phone numbers for your doctors
- Names and phone numbers for hospitals/clinics where you’ve been treated
- Medical tests you’ve received
- Medication(s) you take
- Date of injury and claim number for workers’ compensation (if you receive it)
- Permission to access medical records
How Do I Apply for SSI?
You may not need all of the documents listed below, as some documents can be used in place of others. This list is not all-inclusive, but it is helpful to have the following documents available when beginning the application process:
- Social Security card
- Proof of age
- Citizenship or immigration status documentation
- Proof of income
- Proof of resources (such as bank accounts or assets)
- Proof of living arrangements
- Medical information or records if applying due to blindness or disability
- Work history
You can apply in three ways:
Online (adult disability applications)
By phone:
1-800-772-1213
TTY: 1-800-325-0778
Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
In person (appointment required):
Social Security Administration
175 East 400 South, Suite 500
Salt Lake City, UT 84111
Phone: 866-851-5275
The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers free interpreter services to help you with your Social Security questions. You can use these services whether you call by phone or visit a Social Security office in person.
SSA also provides forms and information in multiple languages, so everyone can access the help they need.
What Happens After I Submit My Application?
If your application is complete and all required documents are submitted, you will typically receive a decision within 6-8 months. You can use the estimated time generator on the SSA website. This tool can give you an idea of when to expect updates
What If My Application Is Denied?
If your application is denied, your first step is to ask SSA to reconsider the decision. If it is still denied after reconsideration, you have 60 days from the date you receive the notice to request a hearing. You might not need to go through all four levels of appeal—you only continue to the next step if you still disagree. You can also choose an attorney or another qualified person to help you with your appeal.
Four levels of appeal:
- Request Reconsideration
- Hearing with a Judge
- Review of Hearing Decision
- File a Federal Court Action
Representative Payee (Rep Payee)
If an individual receiving SSI is unable to manage their benefits independently, the Social Security Administration may appoint a Representative Payee to manage the funds.
Rep Payees:
- Are often family members or friends
- May also be organizations or agencies if no family member is available
- Must track how benefits are spent or saved
- Must provide records if requested by SSA
Some payees are required to complete annual reporting. Parents or legal guardians living with the beneficiary usually do not need to file the annual report.
Bank Accounts for SSI Benefits
SSI payments must be deposited into an account that shows the beneficiary as the owner with the representative payee listed as the financial agent.
A checking account is often the most practical for paying bills and making purchases.
SSI funds should first be used to meet basic needs, including:
- Housing
- Food
- Clothing
Funds may also be used for:
- Medical or dental expenses not covered by insurance
- Home or vehicle modifications
- Personal needs (clothing, entertainment, subscriptions, recreation)
Age-18 Redetermination
If a child receives SSI, the Age-18 Redetermination process begins after they turn 18.
During this review, SSA will evaluate eligibility under adult disability rules, including:
- Income and resource limits
- Residency and citizenship requirements
- Medical and treatment information
SSA typically contacts the individual within one year of their 18th birthday.
Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA)
SSI and Social Security benefits will increase 2.8% in 2026 to help adjust for inflation. The Social Security Administration (SSA) announced that Social Security benefits—including Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance (OASDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI)—will increase.
For more information about SSI, visit our Transition University website and check out our Choices book, a comprehensive guide for families of youth with disabilities.
