Social Security aims to support those retirees who need it the most. It is true that you must have saved during your work life. In this way, you can combine both, savings and retirement benefits. Having a 401(k) plan or an IRA is essential, but there are workers who have neglected saving money to invest in them. They have not made enough contributions or matching so now they struggle to make ends meet.
Apart from the Social Security benefits some of those who are retired may be able to claim Supplemental Security Income. Bear in mind that the amount of money that you get from your retirement check depends on the highest earnings in your career. Social Security takes into account only the 35 years with the highest performance. So if you had a low income in the past, your benefit will also be low.
Therefore, for those retirees who have not got high benefits, there is the possibility of applying for the SSI. As they are not based on your previous earnings, those who need some financial support may be entitled to it. Those Social Security beneficiaries who receive the SSI as well could get up to $914 in 2023. However, if you are married and you both qualify for it you could get up to $1,371 together.
What are the Supplemental Security Income requirements to claim it to Social Security?
First of all, you could be eligible for SSI if you are a person older than 65 years old or 65, if you are blind, or have a disability. Besides, you must have limited resources or income. Being a U.S. citizen or national is another thing to take into consideration. Another thing that Social Security asks for is to be a resident of the District of Columbia, the Northern Mariana Islands, or one of the 50 states.
Requirements are not over yet, since in order to qualify for SSI you cannot be absent from the USA for either 30 days in a row or even more, or just for a complete calendar month. A further point is that you cannot be confined to a prison or hospital while the government is paying for that. It must be someone who receives payments from Social Security. It could be a pension or any other benefit.
You must allow Social Security Administration to check any of your financial records. So, you let SSA have a look at those records that any institution may have. Do not forget that so as to be able to get SSI you must file an application form. Whenever necessary, Social Security may request further information or make ask you to meet some other specific requirements.