Supplemental Security Income

Individuals with disabilities resulting from a severe mental illness are eligible for federal disability benefits under the Supplemental Security Income program (SSI). Those needlessly institutionalized or at risk of needless institutionalization are very likely to be eligible for these benefits. Individuals who qualify receive a monthly federal cash allowance (currently up to $500 per month, rising to $512 in January 2000) and in most states automatically become eligible for Medicaid. SSI cash assistance can be used for housing costs, food and other necessities.

A state can improve the income level of individuals on SSI, and thus increase their chance of being able to afford housing, by supplementing the federal payment. Currently, only 19 states supplement the federal SSI benefit.

The following 30 states and DC do not offer any supplements:

However, of the states that do offer supplements, some offer minimal amounts. State supplements should be at least 10 percent of the federal benefit. The following states currently provide supplements below this level:

States can improve access to SSI for unnecessarily institutionalized people by facilitating applications for benefits as individuals are discharged from a hospital. By entering into agreements with local Social Security offices, state institutions can arrange for SSI applications to be filed prior to discharge so that benefits may begin immediately upon release from the hospital.

For those who are institutionalized through frequent hospitalizations, an SSI rule that permits continued payment of benefits for up to three months of hospitalization is very important. If a physician certifies that the individual is expected to be discharged within three months, and the individual needs the cash benefit in order to keep his/her living arrangement in the community, then SSI benefits need not be cut off when someone is hospitalized. States should ensure that all case managers in state hospitals are aware of the rules permitting continuation and assist SSI recipients in securing the necessary documentation from a physician.

For extensive information on SSI rules for children, see the Bazelon Center's Advocate's Guide to SSI for Children, listed in the Resource section.

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