Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for People With Cancer

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program that provides a monthly payment to people who are blind, disabled, or age 65 or older and have limited income and resources. It provides cash to meet basic needs such as food, clothing, and shelter.

Who qualifies for SSI?

SSI eligibility is based on your financial need and medical condition. To qualify for SSI, you must:

• Be age 65 or older, blind, or have a medical condition that meets the Social Security Administration’s (SSA’s) definition of disability. Cancer may qualify based on the cancer itself, or because of the effects of cancer and its treatment.
• Be below a certain level of income and resources. These levels vary from state to state.
• Be a US citizen or an eligible noncitizen under US immigration law.

Children with disabilities in families with very limited income can also qualify.

How much does SSI provide? 

There’s a maximum monthly amount for individuals and couples. Some states add more benefits to increase the SSI monthly payment, so the payment varies by state.

How do I apply for SSI?

You can apply for SSI:

• Online
• By calling 800-772-1213 to make an appointment at your local Social Security office.

Before applying for SSI, it can be helpful to review the information about the disability application process. This will help you know what information you need to gather before applying, such as medical records, how to contact your healthcare provider, and work history.

The process for applying for SSI for your child is a bit different. You’ll need to complete the SSI application and a Child Disability Report, which includes details about your child’s medical illness, care that’s provided, and how it impacts their daily life. You can start the process and find more information about applying for a child on the SSA website.

How long does it take for SSI to be approved?

The SSI approval process usually takes 3 to 6 months, depending on how quickly information is reviewed.

For certain serious illnesses, including some cancers, applications may be reviewed and approved more quickly through the SSA’s Compassionate Allowances program.

What if my child or I get turned down for SSI?

If you or your child is turned down for SSI, reapply. You can also appeal if necessary. It’s important to follow deadlines, and it may be helpful to have a patient navigator or social worker guide you.

Can SSI affect other benefits?

People who get SSI may find that it can affect other benefits, such as state or local welfare programs. If you get other benefits, these benefits might also affect your SSI. Talk to your local Social Security office about this, or find out more from your cancer social worker, financial counselor, or patient navigator.

Do I qualify for Medicaid if I get SSI?

In some states, people might qualify for and are auto-enrolled in Medicaid. But in other states, you must apply for Medicaid separately.

Some people who get Medicare may also qualify for SSI and Medicaid if their income is low, depending on their state.

Can I get both SSI and SSDI?

SSI is different from Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). For both programs, a person must meet what the SSA defines as a disability. However, to qualify for SSDI benefits, a person must have worked and paid Social Security taxes for a certain number of years.

Some people who qualify for SSDI may be able to get both SSI and SSDI if their SSDI payment is low. In that case, the SSI payment is reduced by the amount of SSDI the person gets.

How can I find out more about SSI?

• Visit ssa.gov - choose disability, then select publications.
• Visit ssabest.benefits.gov to learn about Social Security benefits you might be eligible for, including SSI.
• Go to your nearest Social Security office for information and help.
• Call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) for more information. Have your (or your child’s) Social Security number handy.

Need more information?

Other sources of information and support include:

US Department of Health and Human Services
Website: www.healthcare.gov/how-does-the-health-care-law-protect-me

This site explains patient rights related to health insurance under the Affordable Care Act.

American Hospital Association
Toll-free number: 1-800-242-2626 (this is the customer service/publication order line)
Website: www.aha.org

AHA’s Patient Care Partnership brochure teaches patients about rights and responsibilities related to their hospital stay. The brochure is sold in bulk orders only and there’s a fee for non-members. You can read it online for free (in English, Arabic, Chinese, Russian, Spanish, Tagalog, and Vietnamese) at www.aha.org/aha/issues/Communicating-With-Patients/pt-care-partnership.html.

National Library of Medicine
Website: www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/patientrights.html

This site has information on patient rights along with many links to other sources of related information.

Medicare Rights Center (for those with Medicare)
Toll-free number: 1-800-333-4114
Website: www.medicarerights.org

This service can help you understand your rights and benefits, work through the Medicare system, and get quality care. They have newsletters, fact sheets, and a place to submit questions. They can also help you find programs that help reduce your costs for prescription drugs and medical care, and guide you through the appeals process if Medicare denies coverage for drugs or care you need.