Steps to Get More Money from SSI Disability

Step 1: Ensure You’re Receiving the Maximum SSI Benefit

The amount of SSI you receive depends on your income, resources, and living situation. The federal maximum SSI payment for an individual in 2025 is $914 per month, but some states offer additional benefits. To ensure you're receiving the maximum benefit:

• Check Your Eligibility: The SSA evaluates your income and resources to determine your eligibility and payment amount. If your income or resources have changed (e.g., if you received financial assistance from family or won a legal settlement), inform the SSA so your benefit amount can be recalculated.
• Living Arrangements: Your SSI payment may be reduced if you live with someone who provides you with food or shelter. If you're living independently or have specific arrangements, ensure the SSA knows your living situation to avoid any unnecessary reductions.

Step 2: Report All Changes in Income or Living Situation

Any changes in your income, living situation, or resources should be reported to the Social Security Administration (SSA). Not doing so could result in underpayment or overpayment. Here’s how to adjust your SSI benefit if needed:

• Earned Income: If you are working, the SSA has specific rules about how your income affects your SSI payments. Generally, the first $85 of monthly earned income isn’t counted, and the SSA may exclude part of the rest. Keep track of your earnings and report them regularly to ensure your benefits are calculated correctly.
• Unearned Income: This includes income from other sources like alimony, child support, or financial assistance from family or friends. Unearned income can also affect your SSI benefit amount.

Step 3: Apply for Other Financial Assistance Programs

In addition to SSI, there may be other programs available to help increase your total financial support. Some programs that could help are:

• State Supplementary Payments (SSP): Some states provide additional payments on top of the federal SSI benefit. These payments vary depending on the state, so check with your local Social Security office to see if your state offers additional assistance.
• Medicaid: SSI recipients automatically qualify for Medicaid in most states, which can help reduce your healthcare costs.
• SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program): If you’re receiving SSI, you may also be eligible for food assistance through the SNAP program. This can help reduce the burden of food costs, freeing up more of your monthly income.

Step 4: Consider a Representative Payee

If you have difficulty managing your finances, the SSA may assign a representative payee to help manage your SSI benefits. A representative payee may be able to help you apply for additional benefits or programs, as well as ensure your funds are being used correctly. This can also help you manage your finances in a way that maximizes your resources.

Step 5: Appeal Your SSI Decision or Payment Amount

If your SSI application is denied, or if you believe your payment amount is incorrect, you have the right to appeal the decision. Here's how to go about it:

• Reconsideration: If you’ve received a lower payment than expected or a denial, you can request reconsideration. During this process, the SSA will review your case again.
• Hearing with an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ): If your reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing with an ALJ who will evaluate your case and make a decision. Having a strong case and supporting documentation is crucial at this stage.

Step 6: Explore Work Incentive Programs

While working while on SSI can be challenging because your income may reduce your benefits, the SSA offers work incentive programs to help you gradually transition back into the workforce without losing your benefits immediately. These programs include:

• The Ticket to Work Program: This program allows you to try working while keeping your benefits, and can help you transition to full employment without losing SSI completely.
• Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS): If you have a plan to start a business or attend school to improve your job prospects, the SSA may allow you to set aside income to support your plan, without reducing your SSI benefits.

Step 7: Ensure Accurate and Timely Reporting

To maximize your benefits, make sure you keep the SSA updated about your situation. This includes reporting changes in income, living arrangements, or medical conditions that may affect your disability status. Failing to report these changes in a timely manner can lead to overpayment or underpayment of your benefits.

Step 8: Consider Disability Advocacy or Legal Help

If you’re having trouble with the SSI claims process or believe you're not receiving the maximum benefits, a disability advocate or attorney specializing in SSI can help. They can assist with:

• Navigating the application process: Help ensure all the necessary documentation and evidence is submitted correctly.
• Appealing denials or underpayments: Represent you in appeals, hearings, or reconsideration requests to increase your SSI benefits.
• Maximizing eligibility: Identify any additional benefits or programs that you may be entitled to and help you access them.