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14. Individuals with little or no income who were age 72 before 1968 and had no employment record covered by Social Security and persons who became 72 after 1968 who had very limited covered employment. These benefits are called the "Prouty Benefit". NOTE: These guidelines should be used in identifying persons who appear potentially eligible and thus referred to the Social Security Administration to make application. SUPPLEMENTAL SECURITY INCOME (SSI) The Supplemental Security Income program is administered by the Social Security Administration. The purpose of the SSI program is to insure that all aged, blind and disabled individuals have sufficient income to meet their basic maintenance. The amount of the SSI payment varies with the amount of other income the individual has for basic maintenance. This income is measured against a standard amount after allowing certain disregards. When a person meets all of the requirements, a monthly payment is issued to him from the United States Treasury. Receipt of SSI also entitles the recipient to Medicaid. NOTE: Individuals may qualify for both Social Security and SSI benefits. The general requirements for the SSI program are stated below. These should be used as guidelines in identifying persons who appear potentially eligible and thus referred to make application for SSI. 1. Be an adult who is aged, blind, or disabled, or a minor child who is blind or disabled. 2. Be a United States citizen or a qualified alien. 3. Have resources within the maximum allowable. 4. Have income not in excess of the standard payment amount after appropriate disregards. 5. For a blind or disabled minor living with his parents, the income of his parents is considered. When working with an individual who appears potentially eligible for SSI, the worker will:

1. Discuss the program and potential eligibility. Include in the explanation a discussion of the choice involved when the individual is also eligible for TANF, or is the parent or other grantee relative of eligible TANF children. 2. When the applicant expresses interest, explain that claims are filed for SSI at the branch or district social security office and ask him to contact that office about filing a claim. When assistance is being given through the TANF program, ask the person to notify the county department as soon as a decision is received. 3. Respond promptly when the Social Security Administration requests the difference between the TANF grant including the SSI eligible individual and the TANF grant that would have been paid without the needs and income of the SSI individual. MISSISSIPPI [ INCOME: UNEARNED INCOME ]

Revised 03 - 01 - 08