Social Security & You
By Brandon P. Smith, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist
Social Security has expanded its outreach to people in critical need of financial help who may be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSI provides monthly payments to adults age 65 and older or to other adults – and children – with a disability or blindness who have limited income and financial resources. SSI helps pay for basic needs like rent, food, clothing and medicine.
We identified underserved communities in rural and urban areas across the country. We focused on areas with the greatest decline in SSI applications since the pandemic. Our outreach efforts targeted areas where a majority of people are living at or below the federal poverty threshold.
People who receive SSI may qualify for other financial help, including Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or SNAP benefits (formerly known as food stamps), Medicaid, and discounted internet service through the Federal Trade Commission’s Affordable Connectivity Program. Social Security beneficiaries may also be eligible for SSI.
People with limited income and financial resources and internet access can visit ssa.gov/ssi to learn more about SSI eligibility and request an appointment to apply for benefits. People without access to the internet can call our National 800 Number at 1-800-772-1213 to speak with a representative.
