The Social Security Administration (SSA) has announced a significant overhaul to the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) application process. Starting in December, the SSA will introduce a streamlined online application aimed at making the process less burdensome for applicants.
Key Takeaways
- The new online SSI application will be available starting in December.
- The initiative is part of a multi-year effort to simplify the SSI application process.
- The first phase targets first-time applicants aged 18-65 who are concurrently applying for Social Security benefits and SSI.
- The second phase will expand the new application to all applicants by late 2025.
Introduction of the Streamlined SSI Application
The SSA’s new initiative, known as the iClaim expansion or the SSI Simplification Phase I initiative, aims to establish a fully online, simplified SSI application for Title XVI disability applicants. The iClaim system is an online portal that can be used to apply for multiple types of Social Security benefits.
Features of the New Application
The new application will include:
- User-tested, plain-language questions
- Prepopulated answers where possible
- Seamless step-by-step transitions
These features are designed to make the application process more user-friendly and less time-consuming.
Phased Rollout
The initial rollout of the iClaim expansion will be available for first-time applicants between 18 and 65, who have never married and are concurrently applying for Social Security benefits and SSI. This phase is expected to be implemented in late 2024.
The second phase, set to go into effect in late 2025, will expand the new application to all applicants. These initiatives are part of a multi-year effort to simplify the SSI application process.
Background and Statistics
In 2022, 1.23 million individuals applied for SSI benefits based on blindness or disability, and 172,000 individuals applied for SSI benefits based on age. On average, 7.5 million individuals received Federal SSI benefits each month in 2022.
Statements from SSA Officials
“Over the past year, we have asked many applicants and advocates – as well as our workforce – how we could make the SSI application process easier and simpler," said Martin O’Malley, Commissioner of Social Security. "Now, we are taking an important first step to do just that.”
Conclusion
The SSA’s new streamlined SSI application process is a significant step towards making the application process more accessible and less burdensome for millions of Americans. With the phased rollout, the SSA aims to gather feedback and make necessary adjustments to ensure the new system meets the needs of all applicants.
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