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Supplemental Security Income is a federal program through the SSA that provides benefits to low income individuals who do not have enough work credits for Social Security Disability benefits. They must be either 65 or older, totally or partially blind or have been deemed disabled by the SSA with a medical condition that prevents them from working at least 12 months or more.
In 2023, if you are working and applying for disability benefits, you cannot make more than $1,471.00 gross per month whether you are applying for SSI or SSD. You will be over what is called Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA). SSA believes that if you are able to earn over SGA you are capable of working and will be denied disability benefits.
To be eligible for SSI payments, you must have limited income and limited resources. This will include money you are earning from work, your spouse’s income, Social Security benefits or pensions and also the value of food and shelter you may be receiving from someone else.
Aside from income, to be eligible for SSI benefits, SSA will take into account your assets or things that you own. They must not total above $2,000.00 per person or $3,000.00 per couple. They will not take into consideration your home, if you reside in it, and one vehicle.
You must also be a United States resident to receive SSI. If you are not a U.S citizen but you are legally living in the U.S you may still qualify for SSI benefits under certain terms.
Once you have been found eligible for SSI and have met SSA’s definition of disability, you will begin receiving monthly payments. Unlike the Social Security Disability benefits (SSD), SSI caps out at $914.00 per month for an individual and $1,371.00 per month for a disabled couple. Not everyone will be eligible to receive the same amount. What you receive per month will be determined by the SSA. You will also receive Medicaid benefits and are usually eligible for other benefits such as food assistance which is not through the SSA but through the Department of Public Welfare.
Ultimately where and who you live with will determine the specifics of your SSI claim. To learn more about SSI, contact a Social Security Disability attorney or visit ssa.gov
If you have applied for SSD or SSI benefits or are considering applying and have questions, contact the attorneys at Berger and Green today at 412-661-1400 for a free no obligation consultation. We can help you at any stage of the disability process. From filing an application, appealing a decision, or representing you at your hearing, Berger and Green is on your side.
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