Commonly Asked Questions

• Q. What is the difference between SSA and SSI?
  1. Social Security benefits (SSA) is a benefit program that is an “entitlement” program. This means that workers, employers and the self-employed pay for the benefits with their Social Security taxes. Agents can submit this program under the 135%/150% Low Income. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a needs-based program for people with limited income and resources. The program is paid for by general tax revenues -- not from the Social Security funds. The benefit amount is based on Federal and State laws which consider where you live, who lives with you and what income you receive.
• Q. What do i do if the applicatns name on the eligiblity documentaion does not match the ID?
  1. The applicant must submit additional proof of identification.
• Q. Is a P.O. Box address acceptable for residential address?
  1. No, the applicant must provide their home/residential address on the application.
• Q. What is a household?
  1. a. A household is defined, for purposes of the Lifeline Program, as any individual or group of individuals who live together at the same address and share income and expenses.
• Q. Can more than one person apply for the lifeline program if they are within the same economic household?
  1. No, the Lifeline Service is available for only one line per household.