Supplemental Security Income

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) provides monthly payments to people with limited income and savings who are age 65 or older, blind, or have a disability. You can use this money to help pay for food, housing, clothing, and other basic needs. Learn more about SSI and whether you can get help from this program.

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Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Quick Facts

What is SSI?

A program that gives monthly payments to people with limited income and savings

Who qualifies?

People who are age 65+, blind, or have a disability

What does it pay?

In 2026, up to $994 a month for one person or $1,491 for a couple

Can I work?

Yes, but your earnings may lower your SSI payment.

How do I apply?

Visit SSA.gov/SSI or call 1-800-772-1213.

Is SSI the same as SSDI?

No. SSI is based on financial need. SSDI is based on your work history and having a qualifying disability.

How much does SSI pay each month?

In 2026, the maximum federal SSI payment is $994 a month for one person or $1,491 for an eligible couple. Your payment may be lower based on your income and living situation. Some states add extra money.

Who qualifies for SSI?

You may qualify for SSI benefits if:

• You are age 65+ and/or you are blind or have a disability.

• You are a U.S. citizen or national or a noncitizen who meets certain requirements.

• You have limited income from a pension, job, or other sources.

• You have limited assets (like cars or money in a bank account).

What is the income limit for SSI?

To get SSI, your total income, including Social Security, must be less than $994 a month ($1,491 for a couple). This amount includes the Federal Benefit Rate (FBR) plus $20 that does not count. You can also have no more than $2,000 in countable assets (no more than $3,000 for couples). Assets are things you own like checking and savings accounts, stocks, and bonds.

What assets count toward the SSI limit?

Your home, land, car, and household items do not count toward the income and asset limits when you apply for SSI. A Social Security worker will check what you own when you apply. If you are blind or you have a disability, there are other rules you must also meet to get SSI benefits.

How much SSI assistance can I get?

The monthly maximum federal SSI payment amounts are $994 for a person and $1,491 for a couple. Not everyone gets the same SSI payment. The amount depends on your income and where you live. You may get a higher payment if your state gives extra money. You may get less if you have other income that counts toward the limit.

In July 2026, the average monthly SSI payment for people 65 and older was $611.15.

How do I apply for SSI?

There are several ways to apply for Supplemental Security Income:

• Start the process online: Go to the Social Security website and start the process to apply for SSI benefits. You will answer a few questions. Based on your answers, you will either finish your SSI application online or set up an appointment to apply with a Social Security worker.

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• Apply by phone: Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 or contact your local Social Security office to schedule a telephone appointment.

• Apply in person: Go to your local Social Security office to fill out an application. It’s a good idea to call ahead to schedule an appointment.

Before you apply, have the following handy (or bring it with you):

• Your Social Security number

• Proof of citizenship or legal residency

• Proof of income (pay stubs, bank statements)

• Proof of assets (cars, property, savings)

• Medical records (if you have a disability or are blind)

A Social Security worker can help you get the documents and information you need to apply. You can also get help from a close friend or family member.

What happens after I apply for SSI?

Once you have submitted your application for SSI benefits, it can take several weeks to get a decision. If you are approved, you will get a letter with your payment amount and start date. If you are denied benefits, the letter will explain why and how to appeal the decision.

You can log in or create a my Social Security account to check the status of your pending application.

How can I get help with my application?

There are multiple ways to get help applying for SSI. You can:

• Contact Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 or reach out to your local Social Security office.

• Visit a Benefits Enrollment Center (BEC), if there’s one near you. See if there’s one in your area.

• Contact the NCOA HelpLine for free support. Call 1-800-794-6559, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET.

Can I get other types of help?

If you qualify for SSI, you can often also get help from SNAP (food benefits) and Medicaid (health coverage).

You can try Social Security’s Benefits Eligibility Screening Tool to see what other programs may help you.

You can also use BenefitsCheckUp®. This free tool from NCOA helps older adults find programs that help them afford health care, medicine, food, utilities, and more. Visit the home page and type in your ZIP code to get started.

Many people miss out on help simply because they don’t know they qualify. BenefitsCheckUp® can help you—or someone you care about—find savings and support.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Does my spouse’s income affect my SSI?

Yes. If you’re married and you live with your spouse, Social Security may count part of your spouse’s income when deciding if you qualify and how much you receive.

What is the difference between SSI and SSDI?

SSI is for people with limited income and savings who are 65 or older, blind, or living with a disability. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is for adults with a disability who have worked and paid enough Social Security taxes.

Can I work and still receive SSI?

Yes. You may be able to work and still receive SSI, but your payment may go down as you earn more money. You must report what you earn to Social Security.