How do you help an older adult apply for SSI?

An older adult or disabled person can apply for SSI benefits at any local Social Security office. You can do several things to assist.

First, help gather the necessary paperwork (for both spouses, if a couple is applying):

• Social Security number
• Proof of age (not necessary if the person is already collecting Social Security benefits), such as birth certificate, passport, baptism record, immigration papers
• Documents that show all income, such as bank records, income tax returns, wage statements
• Documents that show all financial assets, such as bank statements, stock certificates, car registration
• Papers that indicate what the applicant's living arrangement is, such as a rental agreement or mortgage documents, or a confirmation letter from the homeowner if she lives with family or friends

Next, locate the nearest Social Security office by going online at the Social Security Administration website's Local Office Search. Call the local office to make an appointment.

If you or the person you're helping has any questions before or after the appointment, you can call the Social Security Administration's toll-free phone number at 800-772-1213 between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., Monday through Friday. When the day of the appointment comes, you may accompany the person you're caring for to the Social Security office and help with the SSI application process.