The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program provides a monthly cash benefit to individuals who are unable to work due to a disability, are blind, or elderly. SSI is a "needs based" federal welfare program providing benefits to those with little income and resources upon which to rely.

In order to qualify for benefits an individual must have a physical and/or mental impairment that prevents the ability to work for, at least, a period of 12 months. An individual claiming blindness must meet a strict vision standard but may qualify as "disabled" if unable to meet the strict blindness standard. An elderly individual is considered to be someone 65 or older. A child with a disability may also be eligible for SSI but the income and resources of the child’s parent(s) will be considered.

All applicants for SSI must have little or no income and less than $2000 in resources ($3000 if a couple). Certain resources do not count toward this $2000 limit - those include, the home you live in and a car.

Applications for SSI must be filed with the local Social Security Office. It is generally a good idea to call for an appointment or begin the application process by phone. An applicant must fully cooperate in order for an application to be processed. Collecting medical records from doctors, hospitals and counselors will go far to assist SSA in their processing of an application. The initial application process can take between 3 and 6 months. If denied, a notice of appeal rights will accompany the denial notice. A denial must be appealed within 60 days of the notice. If an appeal is filed SSA will reconsider the application and collect new and updated medical evidence. An applicant may be asked to visit with a doctor for an examination. If the reconsidered application is denied, a hearing can be requested within 60 days of the denial. It is at the hearing stage that most applications are approved. The hearing will allow an applicant to talk with the person making the decision unlike the earlier reviews. With the assistance of a trained advocate the chances of success at hearing are very good.