No. The amount of SSI varies from state to state. Each state determines if it will supplement the Federal Benefit Rate (FBR) provided by Social Security. The state of California provides a State Supplemental Payment (SSP). These amounts may be adjusted annually to account for the cost of living changes.

This is the amount that a state may add to the national Federal Benefit Rate (FBR). California’s State Supplemental Payment is $199.21. Combined with the Federal Benefit Rate of $841, this allows an individual a total benefit of $1,040.21. The FBR for a couple is $1,261, while the SSP for a couple is $504.64. The maximum benefit for a couple is $1,765.64. Some states that provide a State Supplement Payment, including California, have arranged with Social Security to combine their supplemental payments with the federal payment. There are other states that provide State Supplemental Payments and manage their own programs. These states may require an additional application.

Yes. In California, people who qualify for SSI also get Medi-Cal health coverage. They may also qualify for CalFresh (formerly Food Stamps).

Yes. If you’re eligible for SSI, you’ll automatically get Medi-Cal— the federal Medicaid health coverage program in California.

To be eligible for SSI, you must show that you have a disability that prevents you from working. Social Security requires that:

• You must be able to show medical reports that confirm that you have a severe physical or mental disability.
• The disability must be life-threatening or have lasted or be expected to last at least a year.
• The disability must prevent you from doing Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) for at least a year.