What is Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal cash assistance program for Americans who are 65 or older, blind, or disabled, and have low incomes and resources. SSI replaced various state-run “adult assistance” programs that had supported those individuals. It provides assistance to applicants who are not eligible for Social Security, or whose Social Security benefit is not enough to provide for basic needs.
Who is eligible for SSI?
SSI eligibility includes both an income and asset/resource limit, and the person must also be blind, disabled, or at least 65 years old. To qualify for SSI, the countable income limit (not all income from work is counted) matches the maximum amount you can receive from the federal government in SSI benefits. In 2025, that’s $967 per month for an individual and $1,450 per month for a married couple. This amount is equal to 74% of the federal poverty level (FPL), so it’s indexed each year to keep pace with increases in the FPL.
SSI also has an asset limit – which is $2,000 for singles and $3,000 for married couples, although some states have higher limits or no limit. The income limits are adjusted annually to keep up with inflation, but the federal asset limits for SSI haven’t changed since the program took effect in the 1970s.
How much can you receive from SSI?
The federal maximum SSI benefit in 2025 is $967 per month for an individual and $1,450 per month for a married couple. But most states provide additional payment amounts, which vary by state and the person’s income and circumstances.
Does SSI affect Medicare benefits?
If a Medicare beneficiary is receiving SSI benefits, they will automatically be eligible for Extra Help, which reduces premiums and out-of-pocket costs for Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage. And if eligible for Medicaid (either full Medicaid or a Medicare Savings Program), the Medicaid program in their state will help to cover their Medicare premiums and some out-of-pocket costs.
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