How to Receive Supplemental Security Income

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program for people who are of low income, elderly, or have a disability. In order to receive the aid, the applicant must meet the eligibility rules of the program. Below are the steps an applicant must take in order to receive the benefits.

1. Contact the local Social Security Administration office and set up an appointment to apply for SSI.


2. Provide proof of income of the applicant. This can be done with such documents as income tax returns, pay stubs, W-2 forms and employer statements.


3. Provide proof of a disability for the applicant. This can be achieved by providing medical records, doctor statements of evaluations and diagnoses, school records, hospital records, and any other provider records that can verify the need for the benefit.


4. Arriving at the appointment the applicant must bring all of the required documentation. The applicant will be given a list of the needed documentation when the appointment is set.


5. Gather records such as Social Security cards, birth certificates required, shelter records such as a mortgage or a lease, citizenship proof or non-citizen eligibility records, hospital and physician documentation, a list of the applicants assets and any other income.


6. Prepare for a lengthily waiting period for a decision from the Social Security Administration. Normally it takes at least 90 days for the application to be reviewed and a decision to be rendered. If the decision is in favor of awarding benefits, the benefits are retroactive to the application date.