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You may be able to receive SSI in addition to monthly Social Security benefits, if your Social Security benefit is low enough to qualify.

Meanwhile, the amount of your SSI benefit depends on where you live. The basic SSI check is the same nationwide. Effective January 2008, the SSI payment for an eligible individual is $637 per month and $956 per month for an eligible couple. However, many states add money to the basic check. Generally, the more income you have, the less your SSI benefit will be. If your countable income is over the allowable limit, you cannot receive SSI benefits. Some of your income may not count as income for the SSI program, however. For example, the first $20 per month of your Social Security benefits may be excluded in determining your eligibility to SSI.

Following is a list of some States that supplement the basic SSI amount with a link to more information about that State:

• California
• Hawaii
• Massachusetts
• Nevada
• New Jersey
• New York
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• Vermont
• Washington D.C.

If you get SSI, you also may be able to get other help from your state or county. For example, you may be able to get Medicaid, food stamps, or some other social services. For information about all the services available in your community, call your local social services department or public welfare office.

For complete information on the eligibility requirements for SSI, you should read Supplemental Security Income.

You can apply for Social Security benefits online. However, you cannot apply for SSI online. To do so, call our toll-free number, 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) or visit your local Social Security office.