subject: Overview of Social Security Disability [print this page] SSI is an income supplement program that pays benefits to needy workers who may or may not be able to draw an income but still cannot provide for all of their needs. Beneficiaries of SSI are elderly, blind, or disabled workers. SSI provides financial assistance for food, clothing, and shelter. When determining the amount of SSI a person will receive, the SSA will calculate how much a worker makes but does not include food stamps, residential assistance, energy assistance, or some other sources of assistance before making their award.
