SSI — Benefits & SSA Income for Disabled & Low-Income Adults
SSI is a needs-based monthly Social Security payment for adults and children with disabilities and very limited income or resources. Separate from SSDI.
Official source: ssa.gov
SSI, or Supplemental Security Income, is a federal program that helps people with disabilities or blindness by providing monthly cash payments. Unlike SSDI, which depends on work history, SSI is funded through general tax revenues.
As of 2026, the maximum federal payment is $994 per month for individuals and $1,491 for couples. Some states may offer additional payments. To qualify for SSI, individuals must have limited resources, which means they cannot have more than $2,000 in assets, or $3,000 for couples. However, certain items like a primary home, one vehicle, and ABLE accounts do not count toward these limits.
Most people who receive SSI also qualify for Medicaid, which helps with medical costs. It is important to keep track of bank accounts and resources, as the Social Security Administration (SSA) checks to ensure that recipients stay within the required limits.
In real life
- A person with a disability who can't work and has little money gets SSI to help with basic needs.
- Someone over 65 who has very little income and few assets receives SSI to help pay for living expenses.
- A child with a severe disability whose family has low income can get SSI to help with the child's care.
Also known as
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Frequently asked questions about SSI
What is Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?+
A federal needs-based program administered by the SSA that provides monthly cash payments to adults and children with disabilities or blindness, and to adults 65+, who have limited income and resources. Unlike SSDI, SSI is not based on work history — it is funded by general tax revenues.
Who qualifies for SSI?+
People with limited income and resources who are 65+, blind, or have a qualifying disability. SSI does not require a work history.
How do I apply for SSI?+
Apply online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at your local Social Security office. There's no cost to apply.
Where can I get help?+
Use BenefitKarma's free Benefit Eligibility Screener to see if you qualify for SSI, then start your application at ssa.gov or your local Social Security office. There's no cost to apply.
Source: ssa.gov