Supplemental Security Income, or SSI, is a government program administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA) that assists people with low incomes and limited resources.
It is intended for people over the age of 65, people with disabilities, or those who are legally blind, and it helps cover basic necessities such as food, clothing, and shelter.
The good news is that you don’t need to have prior work experience to qualify, because the program is funded by public funds rather than taxes.
This is where this program differs from others, such as Social Security retirement payments, which are contingent on contributions made through Social Security taxes.
Who can apply for SSI, and how much will the allotment be?
To be eligible, you must meet certain requirements. First, you must be 65 years or older, or a disabled or blind person who is unable to work. There are also income and resource limits: $2,000 for singles, $3,000 for couples who cohabit.
But don’t worry; things like your home or a necessary car do not count. Furthermore, you must be a US citizen or have qualified immigration status and reside in the United States or one of its territories.
How much can they give you in 2025?
In 2025, the maximum SSI payments will be:
- $967 per month if you are an individual.
- $1,450 per month if you are part of a married couple where both qualify.
- $484 a month for someone who lives with you and helps you without receiving formal payment.
These amounts may change if you have other income or if you receive help to cover basic expenses. Additionally, some states add an extra to the federal payment, so it doesn’t hurt to check that.
A curious fact about the March 2025 payment
SSI is typically paid on the first of each month, but in March 2025, there will be a minor adjustment. Payment will be moved to February 28th because March 1st is a Saturday. Be careful; it is not extra money; it is simply a change of date to ensure that you do not lose your benefit for the weekend.
These types of changes will occur again in other months where the first of the month falls on a weekend, such as June, which falls on a Sunday. In this case, the payment would be made on Friday, May 31. The November 1st payment falls on a Saturday. The payment would be moved to October 31 (Friday).
