For millions of Americans who rely on Supplemental Security Income (SSI), the new year brings an important update. As we enter 2025, the Social Security Administration (SSA) has made changes to SSI, including an increase in benefits. Here’s everything you need to know about how much a single person can expect to receive each month.
What Is SSI?
SSI is a government program that provides financial help to individuals who are elderly, blind, or disabled and have very limited income and resources. Unlike Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), which is based on your work history, SSI is focused on need, meaning it helps people regardless of their past job history, as long as they meet specific financial criteria.
How Much Will You Receive in 2025?
The maximum SSI benefit for 2025 has been adjusted to $914 per month for a single person. This is an increase from the previous year, reflecting a 3.2% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) designed to keep up with inflation.
It’s worth noting that this amount represents the maximum SSI payment. Your actual benefit could be lower, depending on your income and resources. The more income you have, the smaller your SSI check may be.
How Is SSI Calculated?
Your SSI benefit is based on your income. The more money you have coming in—whether from a job, pension, or other sources—the less you may qualify for. The SSA uses a formula to reduce your SSI benefit based on your income, so if you earn more, your monthly payment will decrease.
Additionally, where you live matters. If you live alone and don’t receive help from others, you could get the full benefit. However, if you’re living in a care facility or someone is assisting with your living expenses, your payment could be reduced.
Income and Resource Limits: What You Need to Know
To qualify for SSI, your income and resources must stay below certain limits. In 2025, single applicants can’t have more than $2,000 in countable resources to qualify for SSI benefits. These resources include things like cash, savings, or any property you own (unless it’s essential for your daily life, like your home).
As for income, the SSA excludes the first $20 of unearned income (like gifts or rental income) and $65 of earned income (like wages from a job). However, if your total income exceeds these limits, your monthly SSI payment will be reduced.
Why This Matters
For those who depend on SSI to cover essential needs like food and housing, the 2025 increase in benefits will provide some relief as the cost of living continues to rise. It’s crucial for recipients to stay informed about any changes to their eligibility and benefits, as these can impact how much they receive each month.
In Summary
For 2025, the maximum SSI benefit for a single person is $914 per month. While this is a helpful boost, your actual payment depends on how much income and resources you have. If you’re considering applying for SSI or need to understand how your benefits are calculated, it’s important to stay up-to-date and ensure you meet the program’s requirements.
