Social Security Administration (SSA), a federal agency, issues social security numbers. It assists with and processes applications for Medicare, retirement, disability and survivor benefits. It also administers the Supplemental Security Income Program (SSI). SSI is a federal income program funded by general tax revenues (not social security). It is designed to help aged, blind, and disabled people who have little or no income. It provides cash to meet basic needs for food, clothing, and shelter.

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