Social Security Q&A: Will Other Support Disqualify Me for SSI?
Question: This summer, I’ll turn 65 and, because of my financial situation, I thought I’d be eligible for Supplemental Security Income. But my neighbor told me I’d probably be turned down because I have a friend who said he might help support me. Is this true?
Answer: If your friend helps support you, it could have an effect on whether you get SSI and on the amount you would receive. If you have low income and few resources, you may be able to get SSI. However, if you are receiving support from your friend or from anyone else, Social Security will consider that income when making a decision on your SSI eligibility and amount. Support includes any food or shelter you receive that is paid for by someone else.
For more information, visit http://www.socialsecurity.gov/disabilityssi/ssi.html.
Q: Can I receive Social Security benefits and Supplemental Security Income benefits at the same time?
A: You may be able to receive SSI in addition to monthly Social Security benefits if your Social Security benefit is low enough for you to qualify for SSI. Whether you can get SSI depends on your income and resources.
Resources are things that you own — other than your home — such as additional property, vehicles or anything else you could exchange for cash.
If you have low income and few resources, you may be able to supplement your Social Security benefit with an SSI payment. You can find out more about SSI at http://www.socialsecurity.gov/disabilityssi/ssi.html.
This column was prepared by the Social Security Administration. For fast answers to specific Social Security questions, contact Social Security toll-free at 800-772-1213 or visit http://www.socialsecurity.gov.
