SSI Federal Benefit Rates 2026 (Estimated)
Individual
$967/mo
$11,604/year
Couple
$1,450/mo
$17,400/year
Asset limit (individual)
$2,000
countable resources
Asset limit (couple)
$3,000
countable resources
Source: SSA.gov. Amounts updated annually — verify current rates at ssa.gov/ssi.
Many states add a state supplement to SSI. The figures above are the federal benefit rates. Your state may add additional monthly payments on top of the federal amount. Contact your state Social Security office for your total benefit amount.
SSI Income Limits 2026
SSI uses a complex income calculation. Not all income counts — SSA excludes the first $20/month of most income and the first $65/month of earned income. Here are the key thresholds:
| Income type | Individual | Couple |
|---|---|---|
| Federal benefit rate (max payment) | $967/mo | $1,450/mo |
| General income exclusion | -$20/mo | -$20/mo |
| Earned income exclusion | -$65/mo | -$65/mo |
| Income that eliminates SSI (unearned) | $987/mo | $1,470/mo |
| Income that eliminates SSI (earned only) | $2,019/mo | $2,985/mo |
SSI benefit = Federal Benefit Rate minus countable income. Your actual benefit depends on your specific income types and amounts.
Example: If you earn $1,000/month from work, SSA ignores the first $65 (earned income exclusion) leaving $935, then ignores half of that ($467.50), leaving countable earned income of $467.50. Also subtract the $20 general income exclusion. Countable income = $447.50. Your SSI benefit = $967 – $447.50 = $519/month.
What Does Not Count as Income for SSI?
- The first $20/month of most income
- The first $65/month of earned income plus half of remaining earned income
- SNAP food benefits
- Most home energy assistance
- Income tax refunds
- Loans you must repay
- Scholarships and educational grants used for tuition and fees
SSI Asset Limits — What Counts?
The SSI asset limit is $2,000 for individuals and $3,000 for couples. Assets that do NOT count include:
- Your primary home and the land it sits on
- One vehicle (regardless of value if used for transportation)
- Household goods and personal effects
- Life insurance with face value under $1,500
- Burial funds up to $1,500
- ABLE account funds up to $100,000
How to Apply for SSI
Apply online at ssa.gov/ssi, call SSA at 1-800-772-1213, or visit your local Social Security office. You cannot apply for SSI online if you are applying on behalf of a child — you must call or visit an office.
Apply as soon as possible. SSI payments generally begin the month after you apply — benefits cannot be paid for months before your application date.