The SSI Asset Limit

The SSA has an asset limit for SSI recipients, which includes both cash savings and non-cash assets like bank accounts, property, and other valuable items. As of 2025, the asset limits are as follows:

• For an individual: The limit is $2,000 in countable resources.
• For a couple: The limit is $3,000 in countable resources.

These limits include all assets, not just money in your savings account. This means that stocks, bonds, life insurance policies, and real estate (other than the home you live in) may count toward these limits.

What Counts as Countable Resources?

Not all resources are counted when determining your eligibility for SSI. The SSA has a list of exclusions, meaning certain assets are not counted toward the limit. Here are some examples:

• Your primary residence: The home you live in, as well as the land on which it sits, is not counted as an asset.
• One vehicle: If you have one car, it may be excluded from the asset calculation.
• Personal property: Items like clothing, furniture, and household goods are not counted.
• Burial plots or burial funds: Certain burial-related funds or items may not count toward the asset limit.
• Life insurance: If the total face value of your life insurance policies is below a certain threshold, it may not be counted.

However, if you have additional real estate, vehicles, or other valuable assets beyond the exclusions, they will be counted toward the limit.

What Doesn’t Count Toward the SSI Limit?

Certain items are excluded from the SSI asset limit, so they do not count toward the $2,000 or $3,000 resource limit:

• Earned Income: The money you make from working (whether full-time, part-time, or self-employed) is not counted as a resource unless it is saved in a bank account.
• Income from a spouse: Your spouse's income or resources generally do not count as part of your SSI eligibility, unless you are applying jointly for both of you.
• In-kind support: Items that are given to you for free, such as food or shelter from friends or family, are not counted as resources, but they may impact your SSI benefits.

What Happens if You Exceed the Asset Limit?

If your savings or other assets exceed the SSI asset limit, you could lose your eligibility for SSI benefits. The SSA regularly reviews your financial situation to ensure you remain within the asset limits. If you exceed the limit, the following could happen:

• Loss of Benefits: If your assets exceed the limit, you could temporarily lose your SSI benefits until your savings fall below the threshold.
• Benefit Reduction: Even if you don’t lose your benefits completely, exceeding the asset limit can impact how much you receive each month.

However, there are exceptions and special rules that might allow you to exceed the limits in certain circumstances, such as having a special needs trust or work incentives programs.

The Importance of Reporting Your Assets

It’s important to report your assets and income accurately to the SSA. Failure to report assets can result in overpayments, penalties, and even criminal charges for fraud. You are required to report:

• Changes in savings: If you deposit or withdraw money, or if your financial situation changes, make sure to notify the SSA.
• Inheritance or gifts: If you receive a significant gift or inheritance that pushes your assets over the limit, you must report it.
• Changes in real estate: If you buy or sell property, you must notify the SSA.

By keeping the SSA informed about your financial situation, you can avoid any potential issues with your SSI benefits.