SSI: 50 years of financial security
By Cheryl Tudino, Social Security Administration Public Affairs Specialist – for RINewsToday The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program helps support many American families. As we celebrate 50 years of SSI, it is a great time to briefly share the History of SSI and information on how to apply. On October 30, 1972, President Nixon signed SSI into law. In January 1974, we began paying SSI to people who met the eligibility requirements. Fifty years later, SSI remains a lifeline program for millions of people and households with limited income and resources. SSI also helps children and adults under age 65 who have a disability or are blind and who have income and resources below specific financial limits. People age 65 and older without disabilities–who meet the financial qualifications–may also receive SSI payments. You can let us know that you want to apply for SSI online at www.ssa.gov/benefits/ssi/start.html. This process only takes about five to te...