How to apply for SSI
You apply for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) through the Social Security Administration (SSA), either online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at your local Social Security office. The online application takes about 15 minutes and you can save your progress and return later. By phone, a representative will walk you through the questions. In person, you'll meet with a claims representative who can answer questions as you fill out the form.
Before you start, gather documents that prove your identity, citizenship or legal residency, age, and current income and resources. You'll also need to report any medical conditions that limit your ability to work. The SSA will ask for bank statements, pay stubs, and details about any property you own. Having these ready speeds up the process.
After you submit your application, the SSA sends it to your state's Disability information Services (DDS) office, which reviews medical evidence and decides whether you meet SSI's disability or blindness requirements. This review typically takes 30 to 90 days, though it can take longer if the DDS needs more medical records from your doctors.
Key Takeaways
- You can start an SSI application online at ssa.gov, by calling 1-800-772-1213, or at your local Social Security office.
- Gather proof of identity, citizenship or legal residency, age, income, and resources before you begin.
- The SSA will send your application to your state's Disability information Services office, which decides whether you meet the disability or blindness requirements.
- The decision process usually takes 30 to 90 days, but can take longer if medical records are incomplete or need clarification.
- If you are denied, you can file a reconsideration request or appeal within 60 days of the denial letter.
What documents you need before you apply
The SSA requires proof of your identity, such as a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. If you don't have one of these, a birth certificate, school record, or medical record can work. You'll also need to prove your age — a birth certificate is the standard document, though a passport or baptism record also works.
For citizenship or legal residency, bring your birth certificate if you were born in the United States, or your passport and visa if you were born outside the U.S. If you are a permanent resident, bring your green card or I-797 approval notice. Non-citizens must show they have been in the U.S. for at least five years and meet other residency rules.
Bring recent bank statements, investment account statements, and proof of any property you own, because SSI has strict limits on how much money and resources you can have. You'll also need recent pay stubs or tax returns showing your income, and medical records or doctor's contact information if you have a disability or are blind.
Applying online at ssa.gov
Go to ssa.gov and look for the "Apply for Benefits" section. Click on "Supplemental Security Income (SSI)" and select "Apply Now." You'll create a my Social Security account if you don't already have one, using your email address and a password. The SSA will send you a verification code to confirm your email.
The online form asks about your personal information, work history, medical conditions, income, and resources. You can save your progress at any point and log back in to finish later — the SSA keeps your answers for 60 days. Answer each question carefully and honestly, because false information can delay your decision or result in overpayment that you'll have to repay.
After you submit the application, you'll get a confirmation number. Write this down or save it. The SSA will mail you a notice within two weeks confirming they received your application and telling you what happens next. If they need more information, they'll contact you by mail or phone.
Applying by phone or in person
Call 1-800-772-1213 Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. your local time. A representative will ask you the same questions as the online form and can explain anything you don't understand. The call usually takes 30 to 45 minutes. Have your documents nearby so you can answer questions about your income, resources, and medical history without having to call back.
To apply in person, find your local Social Security office at ssa.gov/locator or call the main number above. Walk-in appointments are available, but you may wait several hours. Calling ahead to schedule an appointment is faster. Bring all your documents with you — the representative will review them and answer questions about what you need to provide.
Whether you apply by phone or in person, you'll receive a confirmation number and a notice in the mail within two weeks. Keep the confirmation number in case you need to check on your application status or contact the SSA later.
What happens after you submit your application
The SSA reviews your application to make sure it's complete. If information is missing or unclear, they'll contact you by mail or phone and ask you to provide it. Respond within the timeframe they give you — usually 10 days — or your application may be denied.
Once your application is complete, the SSA sends it to your state's Disability information Services office. The DDS reviews your medical records and work history to decide whether you meet SSI's definition of disability or blindness. They may request additional medical evidence from your doctors or order a consultative examination at no cost to you.
The DDS typically makes a decision within 30 to 90 days. You'll receive a notice in the mail explaining whether you were approved or denied. If approved, the notice will tell you your monthly payment amount and when payments begin. If denied, the notice will explain why and tell you how to appeal.
Understanding SSI's income and resource limits
SSI has strict limits on how much income and resources you can have and still receive payments. As of 2024, the resource limit is $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple. Resources include cash, bank accounts, stocks, bonds, and property you own other than your home and one vehicle. The SSA counts the current market value of these items.
Income limits are lower. The SSA counts most income you receive, including wages, self-employment income, and benefits from other programs. However, the first $65 of monthly earnings and half of earnings above that are not counted. Some income, such as food and shelter provided by others, is counted differently. The exact calculation depends on your situation.
If your income or resources exceed the limits, you may not be able to receive SSI. However, some types of income and resources don't count toward the limits — for example, food stamps, housing assistance, and the value of your home. Ask the SSA or a representative about what counts in your specific case, because the rules are complex and small differences can affect your decision.
What to do if your application is denied
If the SSA denies your application, you have the right to appeal. The denial notice will explain why you were denied and tell you how to file an appeal. You must file your appeal within 60 days of the date on the denial notice, or you'll have to start a new application.
There are four levels of appeal. The first is a reconsideration, where a different SSA examiner reviews your case and any new medical evidence you provide. This takes 30 to 90 days. If you're denied again, you can request a hearing before an administrative law judge, which can take several months. After that, you can appeal to the Appeals Council and then to federal court.
Many people hire a lawyer or representative to help with appeals, especially at the hearing level. Representatives are paid only if you win, and their fee is limited by law. You can find a representative through the National Organization of Social Security Claimants' Representatives (NOSSCR) or ask the SSA for a list of approved representatives in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for SSI if I'm still working?
Yes. SSI counts your work income, but the first $65 per month and half of earnings above that are not counted. You can work and still receive SSI as long as your total income and resources stay within the limits. The SSA will calculate your payment based on your actual earnings.
How long does it take to get a decision on my SSI application?
The SSA usually makes a decision within 30 to 90 days after your application is complete. If they need more medical records or information from you, the timeline can be longer. You can check the status of your application online at ssa.gov using your my Social Security account, or by calling 1-800-772-1213.
What if I don't have a birth certificate or other documents?
Contact your state's vital records office to request a birth certificate — you can usually do this online or by mail. If you don't have other identity documents, the SSA can accept school records, medical records, or other documents that show your identity and age. Call your local Social Security office to ask what documents they will accept in your situation.
Can I apply for SSI on behalf of someone else?
Yes, if you are a parent, guardian, or authorized representative, you can apply on someone else's behalf. You'll need proof of your authority, such as a guardianship order or power of attorney. The person applying must still provide their personal information and medical records.
What happens if I'm approved for SSI but later earn more money?
You must report any change in income to the SSA within 10 days. If your income exceeds the limit, your SSI payment will be reduced or stop. However, you can continue to receive SSI while working if your income stays within the limits after the SSA's calculation. Report changes promptly to avoid overpayment, which you'll have to repay later.