SPOTLIGHT ON SSI BENEFITS FOR YOUTH WHO ARE BLIND OR HAVE DISABILITIES IN FOSTER CARE -- 2024 Edition

Is there a way to apply for SSI before my anticipated release from foster care?

Youth who are blind or have qualifying disabilities receiving Title IV-E federal foster care benefits usually cannot become eligible for SSI until foster care payments have stopped. Eligibility for foster care payments in most States ends at age 18 attainment. SSA may accept an SSI application from a youth up to 180 days before their foster care eligibility will end. 

Important - Beginning with SSI applications filed on or after August 1, 2016, SSA will accept an SSI application from a youth up to 180 days before their foster care eligibility will end due to age. 

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What are the requirements for filing an SSI application?

   Youth with disabilities transitioning out of foster care may file an SSI application if they:

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    live in a foster care situation;

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    allege blindness or disability;

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    appear likely to meet all of the non-medical eligibility requirements when foster care payments terminate;

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    expect the foster care payments to cease within 180 days of the application filing date; and
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    are within 180 days of losing foster care eligibility.

 

THIS INFORMATION IS GENERAL.
FOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL 1–800–772–1213 (TTY 1–800–325–0778),
VISIT OUR WEBSITE (www.ssa.gov) ON THE INTERNET,
OR CONTACT YOUR LOCAL SOCIAL SECURITY OFFICE.