Understanding Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program was established in 1972 to provide crucial financial support to older adults and individuals with disabilities who have very limited income and resources. This program serves as a vital safety net for many, ensuring that those in need can maintain a basic standard of living.
What is Supplemental Security Income, or SSI?
The U.S. Congress labeled SSI as “an assistance source of last resort.” For many older adults, this program is not just a supplement but often their only source of income. In fact, as of July 2025, over 2.5 million SSI recipients were aged 65 and older, making up 33.6% of all SSI beneficiaries.
Administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA), SSI is distinct from Social Security benefits, which are funded through payroll taxes. SSI, on the other hand, is financed by general tax revenues. Another program under the SSA umbrella is Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), which caters to individuals with disabilities who have a qualifying work history. Unlike SSDI, SSI does not require a work history, making it accessible to those over 65 or with disabilities who have very low income.
Who is Eligible for SSI?
To qualify for SSI assistance, you must meet several criteria:
Be at least 65 years old, blind, or have a disability.
Have limited income from pensions, wages, or other sources.
Possess limited resources (assets you own).
Be a U.S. citizen or a noncitizen meeting specific criteria.
Reside in one of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, or the Northern Mariana Islands.
If you’re unsure about your eligibility, the SSA offers an SSI tool that can help you get started with the application process. This tool takes only 5-10 minutes to complete and establishes a protective filing date, which is crucial for determining when your payments will begin if your application is approved.
It’s important to note that using this tool does not constitute an application for SSI benefits. A formal application must be filed with the SSA to receive a determination of eligibility.
How Does SSI Work for Older Adults?
For individuals aged 65 and older without disabilities, SSI eligibility is primarily based on income and the value of resources. The SSA defines income as any cash or in-kind item that can be used to meet needs for food or shelter. Some income is disregarded, meaning it does not count against your eligibility. The remaining amount is termed countable income, which is subtracted from the monthly federal benefit to determine your payment.
To qualify for SSI, your income must fall below a specified monthly maximum. The more income you have, the lower your SSI benefit will be. Here are the monthly maximum income limits for SSI benefits:
$2,019 for individuals whose income is solely from wages.
$987 for individuals whose income is not from wages.
$2,985 for couples whose income is solely from wages.
$1,470 for couples whose income is not from wages.
Resources are assets such as cash, vehicles, stocks, and life insurance. Individuals can have up to $2,000 in resources, while couples can have up to $3,000. However, not all resources count against this limit. For instance, your primary residence, a car, and personal items like household goods and wedding rings are excluded from the resource calculation.
How Much SSI Assistance Can I Get?
The maximum SSI benefit amount is adjusted annually based on federal cost-of-living adjustments (COLA). As of January 2025, the maximum SSI benefits are as follows:
For an eligible individual: $967 (up from $943 in 2024).
For an eligible couple: $1,450 (up from $1,415 in 2024).
However, not everyone will receive these maximum amounts. Payments can vary based on state-specific assistance and individual countable income. For example, in July 2025, the average monthly SSI payment for individuals aged 65 and older was $593.96.
How Do I Apply for SSI?
Applying for SSI is a straightforward process. You can begin by answering a series of questions online, which typically takes 5-10 minutes. After completing the online form, you will receive a letter within 7-14 days detailing the date and time of your appointment at your local Social Security office. During this appointment, an SSA representative will assist you in completing your application.
If you prefer not to start the application process online, you can call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) to schedule an appointment at your nearest Social Security office.
Am I Eligible for Other Financial Assistance Programs?
If you qualify for SSI, you may also be eligible for additional benefits, such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Medicaid. The SSA’s Benefit Eligibility Screening Tool can help you discover other programs you may qualify for.
Additionally, consider visiting BenefitsCheckUp®, a free benefits finder tool from the National Council on Aging (NCOA). This resource can help you assess your eligibility for programs that assist with healthcare, food, utilities, and more. Each year, billions of dollars in benefits go unclaimed because many older adults are unaware of their eligibility or how to apply.
Conclusion
The Supplemental Security Income program plays a crucial role in supporting older adults and individuals with disabilities who face financial challenges. Understanding the eligibility requirements, application process, and potential benefits can empower you or someone you know to access the assistance they need. Whether you’re exploring SSI for yourself or a loved one, taking the first step can make a significant difference in achieving financial stability.
