Links to SSI Spotlights Home / Spotlight On SSI Benefits For Disabled Or Blind Youth In Foster Care

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

Disabled or blind youth receiving Title IV-E federal foster care benefits usually cannot become eligible for supplemental security income (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 90 days before his or her foster care eligibility will end due to age. 

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What are the requirements for filing an SSI application?

A disabled youth transitioning out of foster care may file an SSI application if he or she:

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    lives in a foster care situation;

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    alleges blindness or disability;

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

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    expects the foster care payments to cease within 90 days of the application filing date; and
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    is within 90 days of losing foster care eligibility because of age.


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