SSA Announces iClaim Expansion: New Efforts to Simplify the SSI Application Process

"SSA announced plans for a multi-year effort to simplify the application process for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) by starting to offer an online, streamlined application for some applicants starting in December 2024. 

The initial step – known as iClaim expansion – aims to establish a fully online, simplified iClaim application that leverages plain-language questions, prepopulated answers where possible, seamless step-by-step transitions, and more. The online application aims to reduce the time spent applying as well as the processing time for initial claim decisions. 

The rollout of the iClaim expansion will generally be available to first-time applicants between 18 and almost 65 who never married and are concurrently applying for Social Security benefits and SSI. A goal of the second phase – currently targeted for late 2025 – is to expand this to all applicants."