A Brief Overview of Supplemental Security Income

Supplemental Security Income is a program from the Social Security Administration that helps those 65 and older, visually impaired, or with little or no income get extra funds to help pay for food, clothes and housing.

If qualified, Supplemental Security Income allows one to receive at least $674 monthly. Several states give additional supplemental income. Some states also allow recipients to also receive medical assistance, food stamps and Section 8 housing.

The program reviews how much income and what resources one has when applying. The limit on income depends on the state one resides in. It also includes how many people live in the home with the person. Resources include money or anything that can be sold such as art, investments or properties. The limit for resources is capped at $2,000 for single applicants.

The cap is at $3,000 for those who are married; it does not matter if a spouse is eligible for the income. Individuals are allowed to continue working while getting benefits.

Tags: Applying for Benefits, Eligibility, Supplemental Security Income

This article was posted on Tuesday, May 25th, 2010