SSI Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for SSI, you must meet several eligibility requirements:

• Age or Disability: You must be 65 or older, or you must have a qualifying disability or blindness. The SSA uses specific medical criteria to determine if your condition meets the definition of disability or blindness.
• Income Limits: SSI benefits are need-based, meaning your income must be below a certain threshold. The SSA considers all sources of income, including wages, benefits, and any other financial assistance.
• Resource Limits: Your resources, including savings, property, and assets, must also be limited. The SSA has set resource limits to ensure that only those with significant financial need can qualify for the program. For individuals, the resource limit is generally $2,000, and for couples, it’s $3,000.
• Citizenship: You must be a U.S. citizen or national, or a qualified non-citizen, to receive SSI benefits.

What Does SSI Provide?

SSI provides a monthly cash benefit to help cover basic living expenses such as:

• Food
• Shelter
• Clothing
• Other daily living expenses

The amount of SSI benefits  you can receive depends on your income  and resources. Some states offer additional payments to SSI recipients to supplement the federal benefit, which can vary from state to state.

How to Apply for SSI

If you meet the eligibility requirements, you can apply for SSI benefits in the following ways:

• Online: The easiest and fastest way to apply is through the Social Security Administration’s website. You can complete the application online by visiting www.ssa.gov and creating an account.
• In Person: You can schedule an appointment at your local Social Security office to apply in person.
• By Phone: You can call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 to start your application process.

The Application Process

The SSI application process involves several steps:

• Initial Application: You will provide detailed information about your income, assets, medical condition, work history (if applicable), and any other relevant details. The SSA will use this information to assess your eligibility.
• Medical Evaluation: If you are applying based on disability or blindness, the SSA will evaluate your medical condition to see if it meets their criteria. This may include gathering medical records and speaking with your healthcare providers.
• Interview: The SSA may conduct a phone or in-person interview to discuss your application and verify the information you’ve submitted.
• Decision: Once your application is processed, the SSA will notify you of their decision. If approved, you will begin receiving SSI benefits. If denied, you have the right to appeal the decision.

How Much Will You Receive in SSI Benefits?

The amount of SSI benefits you are eligible to receive is determined by several factors:

• Federal Benefit Rate (FBR): The SSA sets a standard monthly payment, which is called the federal benefit rate. For 2025, the FBR for an individual is $914, and for a couple, it’s $1,371.
• Income and Resources: If you have income or resources above the set limits, your benefits will be reduced. The SSA will assess your situation to calculate the exact benefit amount.
• State Supplementation: Some states provide additional payments to SSI recipients to help cover living expenses. The amount varies depending on the state in which you live.

SSI and Work

If you are working while receiving SSI benefits, the SSA will review your income and may reduce your benefits if your earnings exceed certain limits. However, SSI has special rules that allow you to continue working without losing all of your benefits. These include:

• The Income Exclusion: The SSA allows you to exclude the first $20 of your income each month and certain work-related expenses.
• Trial Work Period: If you are working but your income is still below a certain level, you can test your ability to work without immediately losing your benefits.

Why SSI is Important

SSI plays a critical role in providing financial support to individuals who are unable to work due to age, disability, or blindness. It helps recipients maintain a basic standard of living when they may not have access to other forms of income or support. For many, SSI benefits can be a lifeline, offering a crucial safety net while they manage their medical conditions or adjust to living with a disability.