Application for Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

Form SSA-8000 is the application for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), the needs-based program for people who are disabled, blind, or aged 65 or older and who have limited income and resources. Unlike SSDI, SSI does not require any work history. The form goes deep into your finances and living situation: income from all sources, bank accounts, vehicles, property and other resources, who lives in your household, and who pays for your shelter costs. These answers determine both whether you qualify financially and how much your monthly payment will be, since countable income reduces the federal benefit rate. In most states, SSI approval also opens the door to Medicaid coverage, which makes accurate completion of this form especially important.

The SSA-8000 is usually completed during an interview with an SSA claims representative by phone or in a field office, although you can begin the process online and SSA will follow up. Call 800-772-1213 to make an appointment; the date you first express intent to file becomes your protective filing date, and SSI can never pay for months before it. Have ready your bank statements, pay stubs, lease or mortgage information, vehicle details, and documentation of any support others provide, because household expenses affect your payment amount under the in-kind support rules. Answer resource questions completely, since the limits are $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple. If you may also qualify for SSDI, ask that both claims be filed concurrently.