Many seniors rely on Social Security for their retirement income, but what if you don’t qualify for those benefits? If you’re 65 or older and haven’t worked enough to receive Social Security, you may still be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), a federal program that provides up to $967 per month in financial assistance.
Who Qualifies for SSI?
SSI is designed to help individuals who are 65 or older, blind, or disabled and have little to no income. To qualify, you must meet these financial requirements:
- Limited Income: Your total monthly earnings, including wages, pensions, and other benefits, should be below $987 in 2025. This amount includes the maximum SSI payment ($967) plus a $20 general income exclusion.
- Limited Resources: Your total assets should not exceed $2,000 if you’re single or $3,000 if you’re married. However, the home you live in and one vehicle are typically excluded from this calculation.
Some states even offer additional SSI payments, meaning you could receive more than the federal limit.
How Much Can You Receive?
The maximum monthly federal SSI benefit for 2025 is $967 for individuals and $1,451 for couples. However, if you have other sources of income, your benefit may be reduced. The Social Security Administration (SSA) calculates your exact payment by subtracting your countable income from the maximum benefit amount.
How to Apply for SSI
Applying for SSI is easier than you might think. Here are the three ways you can start the process:
- Online: Begin your application on the SSA website. After submitting a short form, an SSA representative will contact you within a few weeks to complete the process.
- By Phone: Call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778) between 8:00 AM and 7:00 PM, Monday through Friday, to schedule an appointment.
- In-Person: Visit your local Social Security office. Appointments are recommended to avoid long wait times.
What Documents Do You Need?
To make your application process smoother, gather these documents before you apply:
- Proof of Age – A birth certificate or other official document
- Proof of U.S. Citizenship or Legal Residency – Such as a passport or permanent resident card
- Income Records – Pay stubs, pension statements, or other financial records
- Bank Statements – To verify your assets
- Housing and Utility Bills – To help determine your eligibility
Having these documents ready will speed up the process and reduce the chances of delays.
Additional Benefits You May Qualify For
If you qualify for SSI, you might also be eligible for Medicaid, which covers doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescriptions. Many states automatically enroll SSI recipients in Medicaid, so you won’t have to apply separately.
Additionally, you may qualify for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also known as food stamps, which can help you buy groceries each month. Some states even provide extra SSI payments beyond the federal limit.
Don’t Miss Out on SSI Benefits
Even if you never worked enough to qualify for Social Security, you might still receive financial assistance through SSI. With up to $967 in monthly benefits, this program can provide essential support for seniors with limited income.
If you or a loved one might be eligible, don’t wait—start the application process today and secure the financial help you deserve.
