Simplified Online SSI Application Now Available as First Step in Larger Effort

Originally posted to the Social Security Matters Blog on December 16th, 2024

An online application for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is now available for some adults, making the application process easier. Following up on an announcement earlier this year, the simplified online application is part of the agency’s overall commitment to improving access to our benefits and programs.

SSI provides monthly payments to adults and children with disabilities, as well as people 65 and older, who have little or no income and resources.

The rollout of the streamlined online application is the first phase of a multi-year effort to simplify the disability application process and improve access for those who may be eligible.

In the past, customers could apply online for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and select only the intent to file for SSI through SSA.gov. Now, we are expanding the online application to actually include a simplified, streamlined version of the initial SSI application.

Based on customer testing, we reduced the questions from 54 to as few as 12 depending on how an applicant responds. Where possible, some answers will be pre-filled based on previous responses.

The enhanced online application is accessible to adults who:

• Are 18-64 years and 10 months and applying for SSI and SSDI.
• Have never been married.
  
• Have never applied for SSI for themselves or a child.
  
• Are U.S. citizens or noncitizens (eligibility has not changed)

In the future, the agency plans to expand this streamlined application process to all applicants, in the office, via phone, and, later, online.

To begin the application, visit Apply for Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

Please share this information with loved ones, clients, and colleagues who may be interested.

If you are a parent or guardian applying for SSI for a minor child or you are 65 and older with limited income and resources, you can schedule an appointment by calling 1-800-772-1213.