Limited incomes and resources can be a hassle for many people. Fortunately, there is always a solution that can save the day. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is one example that has helped many people. SSI is a federal program that provides support and may be able to offer help to those who are eligible. It comes as a shock that many people are still unaware that it exists and how it can help. Let’s take a look at what SSI is, its eligibility, and more.

SSI Explained

The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers the SSI program. This program can help people through monthly payments. The payments that beneficiaries receive can be used to cover a range of important costs, including:

• Groceries
• Clothing
• Shelter expenses

SSI Eligibility Requirements 

The purpose of this program is to help those in need who have few resources or low income. These people must have eligible citizenship status. Aside from that, applicants must be at least one of the following:

• A person with a disability  
• A person who is blind
• A person who is 65 years of age or older

In some cases, a person may automatically qualify for this type of program. This includes people who are currently receiving benefits from other government programs. For example, someone who receives Social Security Disability Insurance benefits. In this case, they may immediately qualify. Aside from the qualifications listed above, other requirements for this program include:

• Do not leave the country for a full calendar month or 30 days in a row. 
• Have a valid residency status

The good news is that the applications are completely free. So, whether you believe you qualify or not, it’s worth submitting an application to find out. It won’t cost you anything, and it’s definitely the only accurate way to know if you’re eligible. 

The List of Disabilities 

Please keep in mind that a person with a disability who has a low income may still be refused assistance. This is due to the fact that only specific kinds of disabilities are accepted into the program. Only those with disabilities that meet at least one of the following requirements are eligible for this program:

• Causes inability to engage in any substantial gainful activity (SGA).
• Lasted at least a year.
• Is expected to last for at least a year or result in death.

The List of Ineligibilities

We’ve now covered the eligibility requirements. Let’s look at the situations that may disqualify people. This includes the following circumstances:

• If you are in prison, jail, or a public institution.
• If you have an outstanding arrest warrant or felony charge.
• If you give away the resources you get.  

What’s The Maximum Amount You Can Get From SSI?

The amount you can receive from SSI will vary depending on your circumstances. In 2024, the maximum monthly limit is:

• Individuals: $943 
• A couple: $1,415

Let’s Talk About The Limits For SSI

As we said, this program was created to help people with limited resources and income. It’s important to keep in mind that applicants deal with limits when qualifying.

Limit on Resources

Applicants are limited to a maximum of:

• Resources as an individual: $2,000 
• Resources as a couple: $3,000

However, not everything is regarded as a resource. Only the following factors are taken into account when determining how many resources an applicant has:

• Bank accounts, cash, and mutual funds 
• United States savings bonds and stocks 
• Life insurance 
• Personal property 
• Land
• Other items that can be converted into cash and used to buy necessities like shelter or food

Keep in mind that not everything is considered a resource! Contact the SSA if you have any inquiries about what counts and what doesn’t.

Limits on Income

These are the minimum income requirements. Applicants must earn less than this as of 2023. They are as follows: 

• For individuals: $1,913 
• For a couple: $2,827

The limit will not apply to all sources of income. In fact, the SSA excludes the following forms from its calculations of income:

• Refunds of income taxes 
• Grants for education 
• The first $20 a month that an applicant receives.
• Benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
• Home energy assistance 
• Unusual small amounts of random income

How Does the SSI Application Process Work? 

The best part about this program is that there are many different ways you can apply. The options are: 

• By phone
• Applying online

If you prefer to apply by phone, dial 1-800-772-1213, (or TTY 1-800-325-0778 for the hearing impaired). 1-800-772-1213 is also suitable for telecommunications relay services (TRS). However, if you want to apply online, there is a different process. In most cases, the online application process takes no more than 10 minutes.

If you choose to apply online, this is the information you will be asked to provide:

• Some personal information, including name, date of birth, and Social Security Number
• Contact information, including mailing address, phone number, and email

Whatever method you decide to use for applying, you should do it as soon as possible! Applications will take time to process. So it can make things more difficult when you’re in need. Additionally, you will receive your benefits sooner if you submit your application immediately than if you wait!

Let’s Sum Up 

The best news is that there are solutions for people who are struggling with a limited income and limited resources. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is one option. Eligible recipients must be at least 65 years old, have a disability, or be blind (besides the financial requirements). This program provides assistance to recipients in the form of monthly payments. The maximum monthly benefit that recipients can expect to receive is:

• Individuals: $943
• A couple: $1,415

Last but not least, have we mentioned how easy it is to apply? Visit the SSA if you’re interested in learning more about this program or starting the application process. The best part is that these applications are free. That means it won’t hurt to check your eligibility status. You never know! This support program could be a great help to you.