Who can get SSI (2024)

FAQs

Who can get SSI? ›

To get SSI, you must be at least 65 years old, blind, or have a disability, and have “limited” income and resources.

SSI is for people who are 65 or older, as well as people of any age, including children, who are blind or have disabilities. To be eligible for SSI, you must also have little or no income and few resources.

SSI is generally for individuals who don't earn more than $1,971 from work each month. The income limit increases for couples and when parents apply for children. We also look at other sources of income besides your job, like disability benefits, unemployment, and pensions.

Each month, your “countable income” is determined. This is the total income (in cash and/or in kind) you receive. SSA subtracts your countable income from the FBR to determine your eligibility and calculate your monthly benefit amount.

For example, you may qualify for extra help in specific areas such as health care costs, food, and housing. Different federal, state, and local programs may be available. In addition, people can also seek help through private group funds.

For example, if someone pays an individual's medical bills, or offers free medical care, or if the individual receives money from a social services agency that is a repayment of an amount he/she previously spent, that value is not considered income to the individual.

Here are 5 of the most common SSI denial reasons: You didn't return all the necessary forms to the SSA. Your medical conditions would not last at least 1 year. Your assets or income are over the limit.

Some American workers do not qualify for Social Security retirement benefits. Workers who don't accrue the requisite 40 credits (roughly 10 years of employment) are not eligible for Social Security. Some government and railroad employees are not eligible for Social Security.

How much is the average SSI check? ›

Effective January 1, 2024 the Federal benefit rate is $943 for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. Some States supplement the Federal SSI benefit with additional payments. This makes the total SSI benefit levels higher in those States.

The maximum monthly SSI payment for 2024 is $943 for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. Your amount may be lower based on your income, certain family members' income, your living situation, and other factors.

Common Disabilities That Are Difficult to Prove

Mental Health Disorders: Certain mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and other personality disorders can be difficult to prove. Their effects fluctuate over time, and each condition affects a person differently.

We may reduce your Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payment by one-third if you live in another person's household throughout a month and you do not pay for the food and shelter you get from the household.

Obtaining SSI and SSDI Is More Difficult Than It May Seem

Unfortunately, all too many people find that the amount of paperwork is overwhelming and the rules and regulations make the process time-consuming and difficult, especially when they're living with a disabling condition.

The major difference is that SSI determination is based on age/disability and limited income and resources, whereas SSDI determination is based on disability and work credits. In addition, in most states, an SSI recipient will automatically qualify for health care coverage through Medicaid.

While both have specific requirements for approval, it's usually easier to get approved for SSDI because of a credible work history and health plan.

SOCIAL SECURITY ENTITLEMENT REQUIREMENTS. Many people who are eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) may also be entitled to receive Social Security benefits. In fact, the application for SSI benefits is also an application for Social Security benefits.

The maximum monthly SSI payment for 2024 is $943 for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. Your amount may be lower based on your income, certain family members' income, your living situation, and other factors.