SSI in Arizona Eligibility, Benefits & How to Apply

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program that provides financial help to individuals who are aged 65 or older, blind, or disabled and have a limited income and resources. SSI is managed by the Social Security Administration (SSA) and is intended to help eligible individuals meet their basic requirements for food, shelter, and clothing. In Arizona, SSI follows federal guidelines with some state-specific features. Arizona does not provide any additional state-funded supplements to recipients of SSI. However, anyone who qualifies for SSI can expect to automatically receive Medicaid coverage through the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS). Individuals must meet certain income and other requirements to obtain these services.

Eligibility Criteria for SSI in Arizona

Income and Resource Requirements

The SSA assesses both earned and unearned income when determining SSI eligibility. Earned income is considered to be wages gained from employment or net earnings received from self-employment. Unearned income includes Social Security benefits, pensions, unemployment benefits, and any financial assistance provided by friends and family.

Some income is not included when eligibility is calculated for SSI, such as:

  • the first $20 of most income received in one month;
  • the first $65 of earned income, plus 50 percent of earnings over $65;
  • Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits and any other government assistance programs;
  • home energy assistance; 
  • home grants or scholarships used for educational expenses.

SSI applicants must also meet strict resource limits, which are $2,000 for individuals and $3,000 for couples.

Resources that are counted include:

  • money held in cash and in bank accounts;
  • stocks, bonds, and other investments;
  • any additional vehicles beyond the main one used for transportation;
  • real estate that is not the applicant’s main residence.

The primary residence and one vehicle used for daily transportation are both exempt when the calculation is made for eligibility for SSI in Arizona.

Medical Criteria

To be eligible for SSI based on a disability, an applicant must first meet the SSA’s definition of disability. This includes suffering from a medical condition that is:

  • a medically determinable mental or physical impairment;
  • a medical condition that is expected to persist for at least 12 months or result in the applicant’s death;
  • a medical condition that prevents the individual from engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA).

The SSA uses its Blue Book, which is a guide that provides the details of qualifying disabilities and medical conditions that are assessed when determining an individual’s eligibility for SSI.

State-Specific Programs

Arizona does not provide any additional state supplements to SSI recipients. However, anyone receiving SSI in Arizona automatically qualifies for Medicaid benefits through AHCCCS.

SSI Benefits in Arizona

Federal Benefit Rate

As of 2025, the federal maximum SSI benefit rates are:

  • individuals receive $967 per month;
  • couples receive $1,450 per month

These amounts are adjusted annually to allow for increases in the cost-of-living.

State Supplements

Arizona does not provide additional state-funded supplements for SSI recipients.

Healthcare Coverage

Those who receive SSI in Arizona qualify for Medicaid through AHCCCS. Medicaid covers essential health services, including:

  • visits by a doctor;
  • stays in a hospital;
  • prescription medications;
  • long-term care services.

Enrollment in AHCCCS takes place automatically upon SSI approval.

Applying for SSI in Arizona

Steps to Apply

  1. You should first check your eligibility using your income, the resources you own, and your medical status.
  2. Gather together required documents such as proof of identity, up-to-date medical records, and financial statements.
  3. Submit your application by applying through one of the following methods:
    • Online: Visit SSA.gov
    • Phone: Call 1-800-772-1213
    • In Person: Visit your local Social Security office.

Documents Needed for Application

You will need the following documents:

  • proof of identity such as your birth certificate, passport, or government-issued id;
  • medical record kept by your healthcare providers;
  • financial records such as, bank statements, property deeds, and investment records;
  • Social Security Number.

Application Timeline

  • The initial SSI application decision typically takes from 3 to 5 months.
  • Delays could take place if additional medical examinations or documents are requested.

Appeals Process for Denied SSI Applications in Arizona

Steps to Take if Denied

If your SSI application is denied, you may appeal by using the following steps.

  1. Ask for a reconsideration, which is a request for a review within 60 days of receipt of the denial.
  2. If reconsideration is denied you may go onto the next stage which is requesting a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ).
  3. If this fails submit a request for an SSA Appeals Council review can be filed.
  4. If the appeals fail, filing a lawsuit in the federal court is the only option left.

How Long Does the Appeals Process Take?

  • Reconsideration takes between 3 and 6 months.
  • The ALJ hearing takes between 12 and 18 months.
  • The Appeals Council Review can take between 6 and 12 months.

Ensuring all deadlines are met and submitting all requested evidence quickly is vital to avoiding any unnecessary delays in the appeals process.

Resources and Support for SSI Applicants in Arizona

Arizona applicants may be able to seek help from:

  • National Organization of Social Security Claimants' Representatives (NOSSCR);
  • Legal Aid of Arizona (www.azlawhelp.org);
  • Arizona Disability Advocacy Organizations;
  • Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) (www.azdes.gov).

Working with an Arizona SSI Lawyer

An Arizona SSI lawyer can help with the following:

  • gathering and presenting strong medical evidence;
  • assisting with the filling in of complex application forms;
  • representing you at appeals and hearings.

Get a Free SSI Evaluation

A lawyer may be able to improve your chances of approval for SSI. Get a free case evaluation today and get connected with an Arizona SSI attorney who will guide you through the process.

Additional Resources

For more information on SSI in Arizona, visit:

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