Next Steps

You can find more information about SSI:

• On the Social Security Administration’s website.
• In Social Security’s Red Book
• Using Social Security’s Spotlights on special SSI topics.

You can find more information about State Supplementary Assistance:

• On the Iowa Health and Human Services website.

• By talking to your local Health and Human Services (HHS) office.

You can apply for SSI:

• Online (which starts the application process immediately)
• By calling Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 or 1-800-325-0778 (TTY) to make an appointment to apply either:
  • Over the phone
  • In person at your local Social Security office.

If your SSI application is denied and you want a referral to a lawyer or other representative to help with your appeal, contact Disability Rights Iowa (DRI) or the National Organization of Social Security Claimants Representatives (NOSSCR).

You can apply for State Supplementary Assistance:

• Online using the Iowa HHS Benefits Portal.

• By filling out Iowa's health coverage application form and bringing it to your local Health and Human Services (HHS) office. (On Appendix A of the application, select that you need State Supplementary Assistance.)

Note: You have to apply for State Supplementary Assistance even if you already get SSI or Medicaid.

If you have questions about SSI and need to talk with somebody, call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 or 1-800-325-0778 (TTY) or visit your local Social Security office.

If you want to ask about how work might affect your SSI benefits, call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842 or 1-866-833-2967 (TTY). They can refer you to free benefits planning services from Disability Rights Iowa. You can also call Disability Rights Iowa at 1-800-779-2502.

Social Security’s Ticket to Work Program helps people with disabilities who get Social Security benefits re-enter the workforce and become more independent. The Ticket to Work Program offers free access to employment-related services, such as training, transportation, and vocational rehabilitation. You can call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842 or 1-866-833-2967 (TTY). Learn more on DB101's page about Ticket to Work in Iowa.

A trained Benefits Planner can help you understand your benefits programs. Exactly who you need to contact depends on your situation and the benefits you get.

View DB101's full list of experts who can help you understand different benefits.