Who Qualifies for SSI Benefits?

SSI is designed to help Americans with limited income and resources who meet specific eligibility requirements.

Generally, applicants must:

• Be age 65 or older, blind, or have a qualifying disability
• Meet federal income and resource limits
• Be a U.S. citizen or certain qualifying noncitizens
• Reside in the United States, the District of Columbia, or the Northern Mariana Islands

The program is based on financial need rather than work history, making it different from traditional Social Security retirement benefits.

Recipients who leave the United States for extended periods may experience interruptions in benefits if they no longer meet residency requirements.