1508. What are the requirements for an application to be considered valid?

Your application for benefits, including SSI, must be:

1. Made on a prescribed form;

2. Signed by a proper person (see §1501);

3. Received by one of the offices (or persons) specified in §§1505 and 1506; and

4. Received while you (or the person eligible for benefits) are still living.

   Note: This requirement does not apply to applications for Social Security Disability Insurance benefits where the deceased was disabled prior to death. An application for disability insurance benefits may be filed by a qualified individual (see §1902) within three months after the month of death of the disabled person.

(Where an individual dies after requesting benefits in writing, but before filing a prescribed form, see §1509.)

Last Revised: March, 2001