Kentucky Assistive Technology Services (KATS) Network Assistive Technology Resource Guide

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal income assistance program administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA). The program provides monthly financial assistance to individuals who are aged, blind, or disabled and who have limited income and resources.

Unlike Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), SSI eligibility is not based on prior work history or work credits. Individuals may qualify for SSI even if they have never worked. Both children and adults with qualifying disabilities may be eligible for benefits.

In Kentucky, individuals who receive SSI are typically eligible for Medicaid coverage, which may provide access to medically necessary assistive technology and related services.

Eligibility Requirements and Application Process

To qualify for SSI, an individual must:

• Be age 65 or older, blind, or have a qualifying disability;
• Meet SSA income and resource limitations;
• Be a U.S. citizen or meet qualifying non-citizen status requirements; and
• Meet SSA disability or blindness criteria when applying based on disability.
• Children and adults may both qualify for SSI benefits if eligibility requirements are met.

Applications for SSI may be completed:

• Online through the SSA website (for certain applicants);
• By phone through the Social Security Administration; or
• In person at a local Social Security office.

Applicants should be prepared to provide:

• Medical documentation;
• Financial and resource information;
• Information regarding functional limitations; and
• Identification and citizenship documentation.

Additional information and application assistance are available through SSA by phone or online.

In Kentucky, individuals approved for SSI are generally eligible for Medicaid coverage, which may provide access to medically necessary assistive technology and related services.

AT Services Provided/Covered

SSI does not directly provide assistive technology services or equipment. However, SSI eligibility may provide access to:

• Medicaid-funded assistive technology;
• Durable medical equipment (DME);
• Rehabilitation services; and
• Other disability-related supports and services available through Medicaid or related programs.

Assistive Technology Provided/Covered

SSI does not directly fund assistive technology. However, Medicaid eligibility associated with SSI may provide coverage for medically necessary assistive technology, including:

• Mobility devices;
• Communication devices;
• Hearing and vision supports;
• Computer access technology; and
• Other medically necessary assistive technology and durable medical equipment.

Coverage depends on Medicaid eligibility, medical necessity, and program guidelines.