Apply for Supplemental Security Income: A Message from the Social Security Administration

If you have limited income and resources (things you own), Supplemental Security Income (SSI) may be able to help. SSI financing comes from general revenues, not Social Security taxes.

SSI makes monthly payments to people who are age 65 or older or who are blind or disabled. They don’t count some of your income and some of your resources when they decide whether you’re eligible for SSI. Your house and your car, for example, usually don’t count as resources.

To apply for SSI, you can begin the process and — in some cases — complete most or all of your application online by visiting their website at www.socialsecurity.gov/applyforbenefits.  

You can also call them toll-free at 1-800-772-1213 to set up a telephone appointment with a representative from your local Social Security office. To contact your local Social Security office directly, visit www.socialsecurity.gov/locator, select Locate An Office By Zip, enter your five digit ZIP Code, and select Locate.  Your local Social Security office’s local toll-free number will be displayed.  

For more information about SSI, please review:

Understanding the Benefits (EN-05-10024)

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for Non-Citizens (EN-05-11051)

For further inquiries, please contact:
Everett M. Lo
Social Security Administration – Regional Public Affairs Office
26 Federal Plaza, Room 40-120, New York, NY  10278
[email protected]