Some people may have found out that they do not qualify for Social Security retirement benefits payments the day they apply for them. This may be because they had jobs not covered by SSA.
But it may also be because they have never been able to work because of health problems, family care, or any other reasons. Supplemental Security Income or SSI may be the solution if you have a low income, no or little resources and you cannot get retirement or disability insurance benefits.
Eligibility for the SSI payment with no work history
The Supplemental Security Income payment is only for low-income families or individuals. However, these applicants must also meet other requirements to get SSI benefits.
For example, if you are blind, you can apply for SSI benefits if you have little or no money & resources. But there are 2 more ways to be eligible for Supplemental Security Income.
Seniors aged 65 or older and people with a disability can apply for SSI payments. So, any of these three situations can make you eligible if you have run out of money and even if you have never worked. Some children may qualify for these benefits if they have a disability or are blind.
How to apply for an SSI payment with no work history
The way to apply is the same as for those who receive Social Security retirement or Disability Insurance benefits. The Social Security Administration allows citizens to apply for SSI by phone.
Call SSA at 1-800-772-1213 or use this option if you are deaf or hard of hearing TTY 1-800-325-0778. Another possibility is to make an appointment by contacting your local Social Security office.
Submitting an online request to apply for an SSI benefit payment is also possible online. It will only take you up to 10 minutes as you will have to provide basic information such as address, birth date, name, phone number, or your SSN (Social Security Number).