SSI (Supplemental Security Income)
Need-based monthly payments for low-income people who are disabled, blind, or 65+.
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SSI Back Pay: How You Get It, How It Impacts You
SSI back pay covers the period from the month after you applied until your approval date, at your current monthly benefit rate. If it exceeds three times the maximum monthly amount, it’s paid in up to three installments, unless you have a financial hardship.
What Is SSI? Supplemental Security Income Explained for 2027
We'll share the basics, essentials, and FAQs regarding SSI: eligibility, applying, payment schedules, benefit amounts, and more.
2027 Social Security COLA Is 3.6%: What It Means for Your Benefits
For the average retired worker, SSA estimates the monthly benefit will increase by about $75, from roughly $2,095 before the COLA to about $2,170 afterward.
2027 COLA: Which Benefits Increase — and Which Don’t
The annual COLA increase doesn’t just raise Social Security checks — it affects SSI, veterans’ benefits, SNAP, and more. Learn how COLA changes your benefits and what to expect each year.
VA Pension: A Financial Safety Net for Veterans and Their Families
The VA pension provides financial support to eligible wartime veterans and their survivors — here's how it works, how much it gives, and more.
Head Start and Pre-K Programs: Who Qualifies, What’s Free & How to Apply
Head Start Preschool offers free education, meals, and support for kids ages 3-5. We'll tell you all about the program, who qualifies, and more.
New SSI Bill Could Raise Benefits by Hundreds a Month
SSA Compassionate Allowances: Fast-Track Disability Guide
Compassionate Allowances (CAL) is SSA's system for fast-tracking disability claims for conditions severe enough that they clearly meet SSA's disability standard. It currently covers over 300 conditions, mostly aggressive cancers, adult brain disorders, and rare diseases that primarily affect children.
SSDI, SSI, and Medicaid: How They Work Together
SSDI can lead to Medicare, but usually only after a 24-month wait (exceptions: ALS and ESRD). SSI often leads to Medicaid, usually automatically depending on your state. You can qualify for both. And returning to work doesn't automatically end coverage. Plan ahead for the Medicare wait.
Where To File for Unemployment Benefits in Every State
Need unemployment benefits? Learn how to file in your state. BenefitKarma provides a directory of state unemployment offices and guidance on making the most of your benefits.
LIHEAP on the Chopping Block in Proposed 2027 Budget
A proposed budget could cut funding for LIHEAP, a vital program helping low-income families pay energy bills. Learn what this means for your household and how to prepare for potential changes.
The Unemployment Benefit Dilemma: How Lower Earners Are Shortchanged
Lower earners often get less unemployment than expected due to wage replacement rates and weekly caps. Here's why—and what you can do.
How Social Security’s Digital-First Shift Affects You in 2026
Social Security’s Digital-First update is cutting phone wait times, offering 24/7 online access, and reducing backlogs in 2026. Learn what’s changed and what beneficiaries should do now.
New Social Security Bill Would Raise Monthly Benefits and Strengthen the Program Long Term
The SAFE Social Security Act would raise average benefits by $150 a month, modernize cost-of-living adjustments, and strengthen Social Security’s long-term funding by lifting the payroll tax cap.
What to Know About the New ‘Warrior Dividend’ Announced by President Trump
The new Warrior Dividend sends $1,776 to eligible service members. Here’s where the money comes from, who qualifies, and what it means.
New Job Classifications May Change Your Student Loan & Benefits Eligibility
Recent federal job classification updates may change who qualifies for certain benefits and student loan programs. Check how your job is now categorized.
Social Security Doesn’t Accept Power of Attorney: Why that Matters for Your Benefits
Many people are surprised to learn Social Security ignores power of attorney. Here’s how to make sure your benefits stay protected.
SNAP Jeopardized Again — This Time Because of Immigration Issues
A new federal–state dispute over SNAP data sharing has raised fresh concerns about food assistance funding, on the heels of the shutdown delaying November benefits.
Should Social Security Cap COLA Increases for High Earners?
A new proposal would cap Social Security COLA increases for high earners to help protect the program’s long-term solvency. Here’s how the idea works.
