How to Apply for SSI When You're Over 65
The application process starts with Social Security, not your bank account
You apply for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) directly through Social Security, either online, by phone, or in person at your local Social Security office. The process itself is free — Social Security does not charge you to file. You will need to provide proof of your age, citizenship or immigration status, income, resources (savings and assets), and living situation. Most people can complete the online form in one sitting, though gathering the documents takes longer.
The timeline from application to a decision typically runs 1 to 3 months, though it can stretch longer if Social Security needs to verify information with banks, employers, or other agencies. You do not have to wait for approval to start the process — in fact, the sooner you file, the sooner your potential payment date can begin.
Key Takeaways
- You can file online at ssa.gov, by calling 1-800-772-1213, or by visiting your local Social Security office in person.
- You will need documents proving your age, citizenship or immigration status, income from the past month, and a list of all bank accounts and assets worth more than $2,000.
- Social Security will contact you if they need more information, so provide a phone number and mailing address where you can be reached.
- If you are denied, you can request reconsideration within 60 days of the denial letter — this is a separate review by a different examiner.
What documents to gather before you start
Collect these items before you begin your application. You do not need originals — copies work fine, and Social Security can verify some information directly with government agencies.
Proof of age: A birth certificate, passport, or driver's license. If you do not have any of these, Social Security can help you obtain one.
Proof of citizenship or immigration status: A U.S. birth certificate, passport, naturalization papers, or a valid green card. If you are not a U.S. citizen, you will need to show that you have been a permanent resident for at least 5 years.
Income information: Pay stubs from the past month, a letter from your employer, or tax returns if you are self-employed. If you receive pensions, Social Security benefits, or other income, bring statements showing those amounts. Social Security counts almost all income — wages, self-employment, pensions, annuities, and some government benefits — but not Supplemental Security Income itself or certain other programs.
List of resources: Write down every bank account, savings account, certificate of deposit, and investment account you own, along with the balance in each. Include the names of the financial institutions and account numbers if you have them. The resource limit for SSI is $2,000 for an individual, so anything beyond that will affect your payment amount or your may be able to access.
Living situation: If you pay rent, bring a lease or a recent rent receipt. If you own your home, bring the property deed or a recent property tax statement. If you live with family or friends and do not pay rent, be ready to explain your living arrangement — Social Security may count this as in-kind support and reduce your payment.
Filing online through ssa.gov
The online application is the fastest route for most people. Go to ssa.gov, select "Apply for Supplemental Security Income," and follow the form. You can save your progress and return to it later if you need to gather more information. The form asks for your personal information, income, resources, living situation, and contact details.
After you submit, Social Security will send you a confirmation number. Write this down — you will need it if you call to check on your application status. You should receive a letter in the mail within 2 weeks confirming that your application was received. If you do not, call 1-800-772-1213 to verify.
The online form does not let you upload documents directly, so you will need to mail or bring originals or certified copies to your local Social Security office after you file. Social Security will tell you where to send them in your confirmation letter.
Applying by phone or in person
If you prefer not to use the internet, call 1-800-772-1213 Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. in your time zone. A representative will walk you through the application over the phone and can answer questions as you go. The call usually takes 30 to 45 minutes. Have your documents ready before you call so you can provide information without searching.
You can also visit your local Social Security office in person. Find the office nearest you at ssa.gov/locator. Walk-in hours vary by location, but most offices accept applications during regular business hours. Bring all your documents with you — the representative can review them on the spot and may be able to verify some information immediately.
Whether you call or visit in person, you will still receive a confirmation number and a follow-up letter. Keep both in a safe place.
What happens after you file
Social Security will review your application and contact you if they need more information. They may call you, send you a letter, or ask you to visit your local office. Respond as quickly as you can — if you miss a deadline or do not provide requested information, Social Security may deny your application.
You will receive a decision letter in the mail. If you are approved, the letter will tell you your monthly payment amount and when your first payment will arrive. If you are denied, the letter will explain why and tell you how to request reconsideration.
If your circumstances change — your income increases, you move, you receive an inheritance, or your living situation changes — report the change to Social Security within 10 days. You can report changes online, by phone, or in person.
What to do if you are denied
A denial does not mean you cannot receive SSI. You have the right to request reconsideration within 60 days of the denial letter. This is a separate review by a different examiner who will look at your case again.
To request reconsideration, fill out Form SSA-561 (Request for Reconsideration) and mail it to the address on your denial letter, or submit it in person at your local Social Security office. You can also request reconsideration by phone by calling 1-800-772-1213.
If you are denied again after reconsideration, you can request a hearing before an administrative law judge. This is a more formal process, and many people hire a representative to help them. Social Security can provide information about free or low-cost legal help in your area.
Understanding the resource and income limits
SSI has strict limits on how much money and property you can own. The resource limit is $2,000 for an individual — this includes bank accounts, savings, investments, and other assets. Your home and one vehicle do not count toward this limit, but a second car, a boat, or other property does.
Income limits are more complex because Social Security does not count all income the same way. Wages are counted dollar for dollar, but Social Security excludes the first $65 of monthly earnings plus half of anything above that. Some income — like Supplemental Security Income itself, food stamps, and certain other benefits — is not counted at all. Bring documentation of all your income sources so Social Security can calculate your payment correctly.
If your income or resources are above the limit, you may still be able to receive a reduced payment, or you may not may have access to at all. Social Security will explain this in your decision letter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for SSI before I turn 65?
Yes. You can file at any age if you meet the other requirements — you have limited income and resources, and you are a U.S. citizen or may have access to immigrant. However, SSI is designed for people 65 and older, blind, or disabled. If you are under 65 and not blind or disabled, you would not may have access to.
What if I have a representative or family member help me apply?
You can have someone help you fill out the form or accompany you to your appointment. If you want someone to represent you in dealings with Social Security — to check on your case, request reconsideration, or attend a hearing — you will need to file Form SSA-1696 (Appointment of Representative) with Social Security. This person can be a family member, a lawyer, or a non-lawyer representative.
How long does it take to receive my first payment?
If you are approved, your first payment usually arrives within one month of the approval date. Social Security pays on the first, third, or fourth Wednesday of each month depending on your birth date. You can receive payments by direct deposit to a bank account or by a prepaid debit card.
What if my income changes after I am approved?
Report any change in income to Social Security within 10 days. Your payment amount may increase or decrease depending on the change. If you fail to report a change and receive more money than you are may have access to to, Social Security may ask you to repay the overpayment.
Can I work and still receive SSI?
Yes, but your earnings will reduce your SSI payment. Social Security excludes the first $65 of your monthly earnings and half of anything above that. For example, if you earn $200 a month, Social Security counts $67.50 as income and reduces your payment by that amount. The exact calculation depends on your other income and resources.