Who Is Eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA) that provides monthly payments to adults and children with limited income and resources. Unlike regular Social Security benefits, which are based on prior work and tax contributions, SSI is a needs-based program funded by general tax revenues. Eligibility is not based solely on age, but also on disability or blindness.
Eligibility by Category
The age requirement for SSI depends on the applicant's circumstances. There are three primary categories of eligible individuals:
- Aged: Adults aged 65 or older can qualify for SSI if they meet the income and resource requirements, even if they are not blind or disabled.
- Blind: People of any age, including children, who meet the SSA's definition of blindness can be eligible for SSI. This includes individuals with limited visual acuity or visual field.
- Disabled: Individuals of any age, including children, who have a medical condition that severely limits their daily activities and is expected to last for at least 12 months or result in death may qualify.
For children under 18, the disability evaluation process differs slightly from the adult process, focusing on how a medically determinable impairment causes "marked and severe functional limitations". When a child receiving SSI turns 18, the SSA reviews their case using the adult disability rules.
Key Financial Requirements for SSI
Meeting the age, blindness, or disability criteria is only the first step. To receive SSI, applicants must also have limited income and resources. The federal benefit rate (FBR) and limits for countable income and resources are adjusted annually. Key financial rules include:
- Income Limits: The SSA calculates eligibility based on "countable income," which is a portion of the money and in-kind support you receive. Not all income is counted. For instance, in 2025, an individual with little or no income can generally qualify if their income is below the FBR of $967 per month. Income limits are higher for couples and can be more complex for children, where parental income may be "deemed" to the child.
- Resource Limits: Resources are things you own, such as cash, bank accounts, stocks, and bonds. The resource limit is $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a married couple living together. Certain resources are not counted, including your primary residence and one vehicle.
SSI vs. Social Security: Understanding the Difference
It's a common misconception that SSI and Social Security are the same program, but they are fundamentally different. The SSA administers both, but their funding, eligibility rules, and purpose are distinct.
| Feature | Supplemental Security Income (SSI) | Social Security (Retirement/Disability) |
|---|---|---|
| Funding | General U.S. Treasury funds (income taxes) | Social Security taxes (FICA) paid by workers and employers |
| Eligibility | Needs-based; requires limited income and resources, plus being 65+, blind, or disabled | Entitlement program; based on sufficient work history and payment of Social Security taxes |
| Work History | Not required; individuals with no work history can qualify | Required; a certain number of work credits are needed |
| Payment Amount | Based on federal benefit rate, reduced by countable income; states may provide supplements | Based on lifetime average indexed earnings; not affected by other income |
| For Children? | Yes, children with disabilities can receive SSI | Can be paid to children of a parent who is retired, disabled, or deceased |
How to Apply for Supplemental Security Income
The application process varies slightly depending on your situation. Adults aged 18-64 who are applying for both Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and SSI can apply online. However, if you are over 65 and not applying on the basis of disability, or are a parent applying for a child, you will need to contact the SSA directly to complete the application.
- Gather Necessary Documents: Before applying, collect documents proving your age, citizenship, residency, income, and resources.
- Apply Online or by Phone: For disability claims, you can start the application online. For age-based claims or a child's claim, you should call the SSA's toll-free number at 1-800-772-1213 to schedule an appointment with a representative.
- Schedule an Appointment: An SSA representative will guide you through the process, either by phone or in person, and help complete the application forms.
- Disability Determination (If Applicable): If you are applying based on a disability, your application is sent to a state agency that makes a medical determination.
For more detailed information about the application process and specific requirements for different groups, visit the official Social Security Administration website. Applying as soon as you believe you may be eligible is recommended to ensure no delays in receiving benefits.
Conclusion
The age requirement for Supplemental Security Income is not a single number but depends on a combination of factors. While reaching age 65 is one path to eligibility, blindness or a qualifying disability can open up access to these benefits at any age, including for children. The key determinants are always limited income and resources. Understanding the full picture of SSI requirements is crucial for anyone seeking this essential form of federal assistance.
Seeking Further Assistance
Navigating the eligibility rules and application process can be challenging. If you are unsure whether you or a loved one qualifies, using the SSA's online benefit screening tools or speaking with an SSA representative is the best course of action. This ensures you have the most accurate and up-to-date information for your specific situation.
