ELIGIBILITY RULES FOR SSI DISABILITY PAYMENTS CHANGE

CAPE GIRARDEAU - A change in the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) law effective Jan. 1, will allow more working disabled people to qualify for SSI checks.

The cost of work expenses related to their impairment will be excluded when determining their income for SSI purposes.

To get SSI, a person must have limited income and resources. Now that the cost of work expenses are being excluded from their income, people with disability may qualify with higher income.

Some examples of work expenses that may be excluded are a wheelchair, attendant care services, braille devices, prescription drugs, and medical services and supplies.

SSI is a Federal program administered by Social Security. It provides monthly payments to people who are blind, or 65 or older, or have a disability and who have little or no resources and income. In addition to a monthly payment, most people who get SSI are also eligible for Medicaid and food stamps.

People can apply for SSI or get more information about it from the Social Security office.