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Friday, June 26, 2009

Living Arrangements in SSI Applications

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a disability program intended to assist those who are disabled, blind or at least 65 years old with limited income and resources.

Unlike other Social Security benefits, SSI is not based on one’s prior work or that of a family member. It is financed by the general funds of the treasury hence given only to those who have severe physical or mental impairments.

Applicants must prove that they are in dire need of financial assistance. On its end, the Social Security Administration (SSA) would evaluate the living arrangements of an applicant to determine eligibility.

Chances of approval are greater for applicants who live alone. This is because the government sees to it that one who could not work or earn a substantial gainful income due to severe disability has a decent place to live in and food on the table.

This does not mean though that people who reside in shared households are denied of SSI. They are only given a reduced amount.

The difference lies with the fact that people who live alone pay for their own utilities and other expenses. In short, they have greater financial need compared to applicants living in shared households.

Hence, an applicant’s living arrangement determines whether maximum SSI benefits would be awarded or not.