Many times there is a lot of confusion about all the technical requirements of the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program. Because SSI is a needs-based program for American citizens, generally non citizens will not qualify for SSI payments even if they are disabled, but there are exceptions.
According to the Social Security Administration, if you are a non citizen in one of certain immigration categories granted by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), you may be eligible for SSI if:
- You were lawfully residing in the United States on August 22, 1996 and you are blind or disabled.
- You were receiving SSI on August 22, 1996 and you were lawfully residing in the United States.
- You were lawfully admitted for permanent residence under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) and have a total of 40 credits of work in the United States.
Other non citizens may be eligible for SSI if they are:
- Active duty members of the U.S. Armed Forces.
- Members of federally recognized Indian tribes.
- Admitted to the United States as Amerasian immigrants.
- Cuban/Haitian entrants admitted under the Refugee Education Assistance Act.
- Certain victims of severe forms of human trafficking.
- Certain Iraqi or Afghan special immigrants who are admitted as lawful permanent residents.
It is important to note that some refugees and other non citizens can get SSI for up to seven years. If your SSI payments are limited to seven year because of your particular non citizen status, Social Security typically sends a letter informing when the seven-year period ends.
When applying for SSI, Social Security is going to need proof of your immigration status. Specific examples include proof of your non citizen status or proof of military service. If you have questions about these rules you should contact your local Social Security office.
