Social Security Q&A: How Long Does It Take to Get a Child’s Card?
Question: I applied for my child’s Social Security card in the hospital but have not received it. How long does it take?
Answer: In most states it takes an average of three weeks to get the card, but in some states it can take longer. If you have not received your child’s card in a timely manner, please visit your local Social Security office. Be sure to take proof of your child’s citizenship, age and identity as well as proof of your own identity. And remember, Social Security cannot divulge your child’s Social Security number over the phone. Learn more at http://www.socialsecurity.gov.
Q: I saw a poster that advised people 65 or over with limited income and resources to apply for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Next month I’ll turn 65, and I thought I’d be eligible for SSI. I planned to apply until my neighbor told me I probably would be turned down because I have children who could help support me. Is this true?
A: Whether your children are capable of helping to support you does not affect your eligibility. SSI eligibility depends solely on your income and resources (the things you own).
If you have low income and few resources, you may be able to get SSI. However, if you are receiving support from your children or from anyone living inside or outside of your home, it may affect your eligibility or the amount you can receive. Support includes any food or shelter that is given to you, or is received by you because someone else pays for it. Learn more at http://www.socialsecurity.gov/ssi.
Q: I just got a notice from Social Security that said my Supplemental Security Income (SSI) case is being reviewed. What does this mean?
A: Social Security reviews every SSI case from time to time to make sure the individuals who are receiving payments should continue to get them. The review also determines whether individuals are receiving the correct amounts. You can learn more about SSI by visiting http://www.socialsecurity.gov/ssi.
Q: Can a noncitizen get Supplemental Security Income?
A: The laws and regulations concerning noncitizens differ for the Social Security and SSI programs. Social Security administers both, even though they have different eligibility requirements. Some noncitizens do qualify for SSI. See the publication Supplemental Security Income For Noncitizens at http://www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs.
Q: Are Supplemental Security Income benefits taxable?
A: No, SSI payments aren’t subject to federal taxes. However, Social Security beneficiaries may have to pay income tax on a portion of their benefits. If so, you may ask Social Security to withhold your federal taxes from your Social Security benefit payments. For more information, visit http://www.socialsecurity.gov.
This column was prepared by the Social Security Administration. Visit http://www.socialsecurity.gov.
