According to Vibes.okdiario , While some noncitizens may be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, there are specific requirements that differ from those for Social Security benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) has outlined that to qualify for SSI, a noncitizen must meet certain classifications set by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
Who Can Get SSI as a Noncitizen?
Noncitizens who fall into specific categories granted by the DHS may qualify for SSI payments. Here are the classifications that are eligible for SSI:
- 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
- Haitian or Cuban Entrant
- Alien whose removal is being withheld
- Granted asylum
- Admitted as a refugee
- Paroled into the USA
- Granted conditional entry
- Lawfully admitted for permanent residence
However, it is important to note that being in one of these classifications is not enough to qualify for SSI. Applicants must also meet other criteria as outlined by the SSA. For a full list of conditions, you can refer to the SSA publication here: https://www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-11051.pdf.
Social Security Benefits vs. SSI for Noncitizens
The SSA makes it clear that Social Security benefits have different eligibility requirements compared to SSI. Noncitizens who are lawfully present in the United States and meet all eligibility criteria can qualify for Social Security benefits.
To qualify, noncitizens must have a Social Security Number (SSN) issued after December 2003. If you received your SSN within the last 21 years, you could be eligible for Social Security benefits if you meet other qualifications, such as work history and age.
Receiving Benefits Outside the U.S.
If you are a noncitizen and wish to continue receiving Social Security benefits while living outside the U.S., you must meet specific conditions. The SSA provides detailed guidelines on eligibility for payments made abroad, which can vary based on your country of residence and the type of benefits you are receiving.
Conclusion
While noncitizens may be eligible for SSI benefits under specific classifications granted by the DHS, they must also meet additional SSA requirements. It is important for noncitizens to understand the distinction between Social Security and SSI eligibility and to ensure they meet all the necessary conditions to qualify for benefits. For those wishing to receive benefits outside the U.S., further conditions apply, and understanding these rules can help avoid interruptions in payment.
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