If you have low income and you are older, blind, or have a disability, affording everyday expenses can be challenging. The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program can help by providing monthly cash payments that allow you to live more comfortably and safely. You may also get help to pay for medicine if you use this program and Medicare.

People who are eligible for SSI can receive up to $967 a month, while qualifying couples can receive up to $1,450.

What is the Supplemental Security Income program?

Created in 1972, SSI is a federal program that gives monthly payments to certain people who have low income and little savings. You can use SSI money to pay for things like groceries, housing, and other basic needs. This program is run by the Social Security Administration (SSA), but it is not the same as Social Security retirement benefits.

Who can get Supplemental Security Income?

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).

To get SSI, your total income, including Social Security, must be less than $987 a month ($1,470 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).

Not all money and things you own count toward the income and asset limits when you apply for SSI. For example, your home, land, car, and household items do not count. 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 $967 for a person and $1,450 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.

How do I apply for SSI?

There are several ways to apply for Supplemental Security Income:

Apply online

Go to the Social Security website and start the process to apply for disability benefits. You may be able to apply for SSI using this online application.

Apply Online

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 personal 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.
• NCOA also has a HelpLine you can call to get free support. To get started today, call 1-800-794-6559.