Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

What is Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?

Supplemental Security Income is a federal program that provides monthly payments to people who are 65 or older as well as people of any age who are blind or who have disabilities.

Who is eligible for SSI?

• People older than 18 but younger than 65, with disabilities and limited income and resources.
• People who are 65 years old or older, with limited income and resources.
• Qualifying children and youth under 18 with disabilities. A different definition of disability applies to people under 18.

What is the maximum SSI benefit?

The maximum monthly SSI benefit for 2021 is $954.72 for individuals and $1,598.14 for eligible couples. If you are blind, the maximum is $1,011.23 for an individual and $1,749.19 for a couple.

See a complete listing of California maximum monthly payments for different situations maintained by the Social Security Administration.

Can a homeless person collect SSI benefits?

Yes. You don't have to have a fixed address to collect SSI benefits. If you are home

You don't have to have a fixed address to collect SSI benefits as anyone else. See Social Security Administration's Spotlight on Homelessness.

How to apply?

• Apply online (which starts the application process immediately instead of having to wait for an appointment)
• By calling Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 or 1-800-325-0778 (TTY) to make an appointment to apply either:
  • Over the phone
  • In person at your local Social Security office.

Learn more about SSI, by visiting Understanding Supplemental Security Income (SSI)