Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

Welcome back! This blog provides financial resources and information for people living with cancer. In this post, I want to focus on Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

What is SSI?

 SSI is a federal program that offers “supplemental” income to people who meet certain criteria. If you qualify, you will receive monthly payments from the federal government, typically through direct deposit to your bank account. Note that this program is designed to offer supplemental income, so the payments are calculated to cover basic needs: food, clothing, shelter. The average monthly payment is between $700-$800. If you live in a state that adds to the federal payments, your monthly payment may be slightly higher. Your total monthly income may change depending on your income and living arrangements.

Unlike SSDI, your payments are not determined by the amount of taxes you have paid in the past. For more information on SSDI: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) | Living with cancer take my hand

 Are people living with cancer eligible for SSI?

 In general, SSI income is available for people over age 65, people who are blind, or people who are “disabled” with an individual income of less than $814/month in 2021, and less than $2,000 in assets. According to the SSI guidelines, being disabled means “the condition must be expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.” Typically, people under age 65 with an advanced stage cancer diagnosis qualify for SSI.

Talk with your cancer treatment team to determine the anticipated length of treatment and outcome for your diagnosis. You may be tempted to delay this conversation. However, the approval process for SSI takes time (a minimum of 90 days) depending on which state you live in. To avoid further delays, provide all medical documents and physician letters at the time of the initial application. When asking your cancer treatment team for SSI application letters, remind them to include details on how you specifically meet the SSI criteria. These letters are hard to write, and they are harder for you to read.

This can be handled by a family member or trusted friend if you are not quite ready to take this on.

 Health insurance and SSI:

 In most states, if you qualify for SSI, you will be eligible for Medicaid. In some states no further applications is necessary. For individual state information go to: Health coverage options for people who get Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Disability. | HealthCare.gov

 How to apply for SSI:

 To apply for SSI, you can begin the process and complete a large part of your application online at

 Apply for Social Security Benefits | SSA

You can also call toll-free at 1-800-772-1213 to set up an in-person or telephone appointment with a representative from your local Social Security office. These appointments are limited due to COVID-19 restrictions.

For More Information:

Supplemental Security Income (ssa.gov)

You May Be Able to Get Supplemental Security Income (SSI) (ssa.gov)

A Guide to Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for Groups and Organizations 2020 (ssa.gov)

Checklist for Online Adult Disability Application (ssa.gov)

Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) | SSA

I hope this information is helpful.  If you would like to continue this conversation, please click on the Subscribe button at the top of the Blog page. I would love to hear your comments as well as resources that have worked for you. Please share this information with your family and friends.

Keeping you in my prayers,

Jackie