Student Earned Income Exclusion — SEIE
An SSI rule that lets students under 22 exclude a large share of their earnings from the SSI calculation, so working in school does not cut their check.
Official source: ssa.gov
## What the SEIE does
The Student Earned Income Exclusion (SEIE) lets SSI recipients under age 22 who are regularly attending school exclude a major chunk of their earned income before SSA calculates the SSI benefit reduction.
In 2026, the SEIE allows up to **$2,290 per month** of earned income to be excluded, up to an annual maximum of **$9,230**.
## Who qualifies
You must be:
- An SSI recipient. - Under age 22. - Regularly attending school, meaning: - At least 8 hours/week in college or vocational training, OR - At least 12 hours/week in grades 7 through 12, OR - Supervised home schooling that meets state requirements.
## How it stacks
The SEIE is applied **before** the standard SSI income exclusions, which makes it especially powerful. After the SEIE, SSA still applies:
- $20 general income exclusion. - $65 earned income exclusion. - The 50% earned income disregard on what remains.
A young SSI recipient earning $1,500/month in 2026 can often keep their full SSI check thanks to the SEIE.
## Why it matters
The SEIE removes the biggest disincentive for SSI youth to take a first job, an internship, or a summer position. Early work experience boosts long-term outcomes.
## What to report
- Earnings each month. - Proof of school enrollment and attendance. - Any changes to your school status.
Also known as
Frequently asked questions about Student Earned Income Exclusion
Does the SEIE apply if I am 22 or older?+
No. You must be under age 22 for the entire month you want the exclusion to apply.
What counts as regularly attending school?+
At least 8 hours/week in college or vocational training, at least 12 hours/week in grades 7-12, or qualifying home schooling supervised by the state.
Does the SEIE apply during summer break?+
Yes, if SSA expects you to return to school after the break.
Can I combine the SEIE with an ABLE account?+
Yes. The SEIE reduces countable income for SSI, and qualifying ABLE distributions are generally excluded as well.
Do I have to apply for the SEIE?+
No. SSA applies it automatically when you report wages and your school status. Always update SSA on enrollment and attendance.
Source: ssa.gov