Improvements Needed in the SSI Oral Inquiry Process

In April 1978, the Social Security Administration implemented a proposed regulation which affords persons making an oral inquiry about their possible eligibility for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits the same protection as a person making a written inquiry; that is, an opportunity to have their benefits computed from the date of inquiry provided they are found eligible after filing an application. Previously, SSI benefits were computed from the date the formal application was filed, regardless of the date of oral inquiry.