How to apply for Wisconsin SSI State Supplement & SSI-E

Who it's for

Wisconsin adds a monthly state supplement to federal SSI payments for residents who are 65 or older, blind, or disabled with little income and assets of $2,000 or less ($3,000 for a couple). The SSI-E (Exceptional Expense) supplement pays more to SSI members who need at least 40 hours a month of help at home — certified by the county or tribal agency. SSI members in Wisconsin also get Medicaid automatically. Apply for SSI through Social Security (1-800-772-1213); ask the county income maintenance agency about SSI-E certification.

What you'll need

• Social Security/SSI award information
• Proof of assets
• For SSI-E: county certification of 40+ hours monthly in-home support

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Wisconsin SSI State Supplement & SSI-E. I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need social Security/SSI award information, proof of assets, for SSI-E: county certification of 40+ hours monthly in-home support — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Step by step

1. Gather your documents before you start. You will need your Social Security or SSI award information and proof of your assets. If you are applying for the SSI-E supplement, you will also need a county or tribal agency certification showing you need at least 40 hours of in-home support each month.
2. Apply for SSI through Social Security. You can apply online or by phone at 1-800-772-1213. The Wisconsin state supplement follows federal SSI eligibility, so this is the first and most important step.
3. Ask your county income maintenance agency about SSI-E certification if you need extra help at home. This certification is separate from your SSI application and must be completed by your county or tribal agency.
4. Submit your SSI-E certification to support your application for the higher supplement. Without this county certification, the SSI-E benefit cannot be approved.
5. Keep copies of everything you submit. Note any reference numbers or confirmation details from Social Security or your county agency.

What to expect: After you apply, Social Security and the Wisconsin Department of Health Services review your information and make the final decisions on eligibility. If approved for SSI, the Wisconsin state supplement is added to your monthly federal SSI payment automatically, and you will also be enrolled in Medicaid. If you applied for SSI-E, your county or tribal agency must complete its certification before that higher supplement can be approved. Processing times vary, so contact Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 or your county income maintenance agency for an estimate. There is no periodic renewal required for this program, but you should report any changes in your income, assets, or living situation right away, as these can affect your eligibility.

Renewals

none