Supplemental Security Income (SSI) establishes maximum payments of $967 for single individuals and $1,450 for couples in 2025. These amounts require strict compliance with financial and personal conditions. Applicants must pass detailed income and asset assessments. The Social Security Administration (SSA) verifies each factor before approving benefits.
Adults 65 and older or people with a qualified disability are eligible for the program. Blindness is also listed as an eligible medical condition. Minors with disabilities may apply subject to specific medical requirements. Financial restrictions apply equally to all age groups.
Income and Resources: The Keys to Qualifying for SSI Payments
Eligible income includes wages, pensions, and in-kind assistance. The limit must remain below the SSI base amounts. $20 per month of general income and $65 of earnings from employment are excluded. These discounts are intended to facilitate access to part-time employment.
The beneficiary’s personal assets (and their partner, if applicable) cannot exceed $2,000 for individuals. Couples have a $3,000 limit on liquid assets. Primary residence and one vehicle are excluded. Personal belongings and essential household goods are also not counted.
Monthly payments reflect adjustments based on financial circumstances. Reductions apply if you receive free food or housing. Those who live in foster care see their benefits adjusted. The SSA recalculates benefits based on material support received.
Distribution occurs on the first business day of each month. If the date falls on a holiday, it is moved up to the previous Friday. Direct deposits guarantee immediate access to funds. Pre-configured debit cards are an alternative for those without banking access.
SSI payments increased in 2025
The 2.5% increase in 2025 is based on the CPI-W index, which translates into the so-called “cost of living adjustment” (COLA). This adjustment compensates for accumulated inflation. The revised amounts are effective as of January of the fiscal year. The calculation formula follows established legal parameters.
So the maximum payment of $967 for individuals and $1,450 for couples already includes that amount. There is also a third category called “essential person,” which is a payment for beneficiaries who need someone to assist them with daily tasks, such as hygiene, food, transportation, or companionship. For this category, the maximum amount is $484 per month.
Remember that SSI payments can be seamlessly combined with Social Security retirement benefits when they fall below certain thresholds. They are compatible, even though retirement benefits are based on the employee’s “work credit” contributions during their working life, and SSI is based solely on the applicant’s need, with no work history required.
How to apply for SSI: phone, online, and in-person
To apply for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) by phone, call the Social Security Administration (SSA) at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778 for deaf/hard of hearing). Representatives are available Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
An SSA agent will conduct an initial screening and schedule an appointment to complete the application. Required documents (proof of income, resources, and medical records) must be submitted later by mail or in person.
The SSA’s online portal allows applicants to start the SSI process at ssa.gov/applyforbenefits. The system guides users through eligibility questions but does not yet support full online SSI applications. After submitting preliminary details, an SSA representative will contact the applicant to finalize the process. Documents must still be provided via mail, fax, or in-person submission
Local Social Security offices handle SSI applications by appointment. Use the SSA’s office locator at ssa.gov/locator to find the nearest location. Applicants must bring: Proof of identity (birth certificate, passport), proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns), medical records (if applying for disability), proof of living arrangements (lease, utility bills). Walk-ins are accepted, but appointments reduce wait times. Processing typically takes 30–90 days.
