If you’re a noncitizen and need to receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments in the U.S., you may be wondering if you’re eligible. In fact, some noncitizens can qualify for SSI benefits, but there are specific rules that apply. The Social Security Administration (SSA) explains that SSI benefits have different requirements compared to regular Social Security benefits.
Let’s take a look at the rules for noncitizens who want to qualify for SSI and how they can get these benefits.
Who Can Receive SSI as a Noncitizen?
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) grants certain classifications that allow noncitizens to receive SSI benefits. However, just being in one of these classifications isn’t enough. You also need to meet additional conditions. Here are the main classifications that might make you eligible:
- Admitted as a Ukrainian Humanitarian Parolee
- Admitted as an Afghan Non-Special Immigrant Parolee
- Admitted as an Afghan Humanitarian Parolee
- Admitted as an Iraqi or Afghan Special Immigrant
- Admitted as an Amerasian Immigrant
- A Haitian or Cuban Entrant
- An alien whose removal is being withheld
- Non-citizen: granted asylum
- Admitted as a refugee
- Paroled in the USA
- Granted conditional entry
- Lawfully admitted for permanent residence
However, being in one of these categories alone won’t make you eligible. You must also meet additional conditions, which can be found on the SSA’s official page: SSA Eligibility Conditions.
Social Security vs. SSI Program for Noncitizens
It’s important to note that the Social Security benefits program and the SSI program have different rules. The SSA says that lawfully present noncitizens who meet eligibility requirements may qualify for Social Security benefits.
For noncitizens who are authorized to work in the U.S. and have a Social Security Number (SSN) issued after December 2003, they may be eligible for Social Security benefits. This applies even if the noncitizen has lived in the U.S. for many years.
However, if you are outside the U.S. and want to continue receiving your benefits, you must meet specific conditions set by the SSA.
| Eligibility Category | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Ukrainian Humanitarian Parolee | Must meet SSA’s additional conditions |
| Afghan Non-Special Immigrant Parolee | Must meet SSA’s additional conditions |
| Lawfully Admitted for Permanent Residence | Must have SSN and other requirements |
Conclusion
Noncitizens in the U.S. who are part of specific DHS classifications can qualify for Supplemental Security Income benefits. However, it’s not enough just to be in one of these classifications; noncitizens must meet additional eligibility requirements. The SSA has different rules for Social Security benefits and SSI, so it’s essential to understand which program you are applying for. If you’re planning to receive SSI outside the U.S., make sure to check if you meet the SSA’s specific conditions.
FAQ’s
Can noncitizens receive SSI benefits?
Yes, but they must be in specific classifications granted by the DHS and meet additional eligibility requirements.
What’s the difference between Social Security and SSI for noncitizens?
Social Security and SSI have different rules. Noncitizens must meet specific criteria for each program.
Can I receive SSI outside the U.S.?
Noncitizens must meet specific conditions to receive benefits outside the U.S. as per SSA rules.