How to Increase Supplemental Security Income
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is given to those unable to work, blind or elderly. It is not considered Social Security, but rather a benefit that is given to those who are not physically able to work and have no income source. To increase the amount of Supplemental Security Income you must first determine if you are receiving the maximum amount you are allowed.
- Determine if you are receiving less than the maximum Supplemental Security Income (SSI) amount per month. The current SSI maximum payment amounts for 2011 are: $698 for Individuals; $1048 for couples; $350 for essential persons. In January 2012 the amounts will increase by 3.6 percent. There are several factors that might reduce the amount received, such as income from another source or a spouse that is also receiving SSI. If you are not receiving additional income and have determined that you are not receiving the maximum SSI benefit, proceed to step two.
- Contact the Social Security Administration office by calling 1-800-772-1213. You can apply for an increase by telephone if you have determined that you are currently not receiving the maximum amount of SSI benefits. They will ask you to verify your identity, so have your Social Security card and identification handy.
- Some states also pay additional SSI benefits that are not federally funded. Each state is different, and not all of them provide the additional SSI benefit. Contact your local Social Security Administration office to determine if your state even provides additional SSI benefits.
- More information can be found at the Social Security Administration website, SSA.gov.