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SSI (Supplemental Security Income)

SSI provides monthly cash payments to people who have limited income and resources and who are disabled, blind, or age 65 or older1.

The maximum federal SSI payment in 2026 is $994 per month for an individual and $1,491 for a couple2. Some states add a separate state supplement.

Who qualifies

Adults and children may qualify for SSI if they meet all three core tests1:

  • Limited income
  • Limited resources — generally $2,000 for an individual or $3,000 for a couple
  • Status qualification — disability, blindness, or age 65 or older

Citizenship and immigration rules also apply.

How payments work

Your actual payment may be lower than the federal maximum. SSA explains that payments can change based on2:

  • income from work
  • non-work income such as benefits or pensions
  • living situation
  • certain family members' income

As a public rule of thumb, earned income usually reduces SSI by about $1 for every $2 earned, while non-work income usually reduces SSI by about $1 for every $1 received2.

SSI and disability planning tools

Two planning tools matter often for families trying to preserve SSI while paying for disability-related needs:

  • ABLE accounts — the first $100,000 in an ABLE account is disregarded for SSI resource counting; balances above that can suspend SSI, while Medicaid may continue if the person is otherwise eligible3
  • Special needs trusts — trust rules are technical; some trusts count as resources, and some shelter payments from a trust can reduce SSI4

SSA also notes that food is no longer included in SSI in-kind support calculations as of late 2024, which is an important update for families reading older trust guidance4.

How to apply

Apply online or start with the official SSA SSI application page: ssa.gov/apply/ssi.

If your situation is complex — for example, a child applicant, a disability claim with limited records, or a household using an ABLE account or trust — it can help to review the SSA guidance first and get benefits counseling or legal advice.

  • SSDI — disability income based on work history rather than low-income rules
  • Medicaid — health coverage that often works alongside SSI
  • ABLE Accounts — flexible savings for qualified disability expenses
  • Special Needs Trusts — planning tool for larger assets or inheritances

  1. SSA. "Who can get SSI." Source → ↩↩

  2. SSA. "How much you could get from SSI." Source → ↩↩↩

  3. SSA. "Spotlight on Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Accounts." Source → ↩

  4. SSA. "SSI Spotlight on Trusts." Source → ↩↩