The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program provides financial assistance to low-income individuals in the U.S. who meet specific criteria.
If you have a disability, are blind, or are aged 65 or older, you may qualify for SSI benefits, which offer monthly payments to help meet basic living needs.
With the 2025 Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA), SSI payments will increase, allowing individuals to receive up to $967 per month. Let’s look at the eligibility requirements, new payment amounts, and how to apply for SSI in 2025.
What is SSI?
SSI is a federal program funded by general tax revenues, not Social Security taxes. It helps people with limited income and resources who are:
- Aged 65 or older,
- Blind, or
- Disabled.
The program ensures that individuals who cannot work due to a disability or age receive monthly payments to cover basic expenses, including food, housing, and clothing.
2025 COLA Increase for SSI Payments
In 2025, thanks to the 2.5% COLA increase, SSI beneficiaries will see a boost in their payments. Here’s the breakdown of the maximum monthly amounts after the increase:
- Individuals: Up to $967 per month.
- Married couples: Up to $1,450 per month.
- Essential persons (those living with the SSI recipient who provide essential care): Up to $484 per month.
These amounts will go into effect on December 31, 2024, for SSI recipients, ahead of the 2025 COLA increase for other Social Security beneficiaries.
SSI Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the $967 monthly SSI payment in 2025, you must meet these requirements:
1. Income and Resource Limits
- Income: Your monthly income must fall below a certain threshold. Social Security defines income as any money you receive, including wages, pensions, and Social Security benefits.
- Resources: You must have limited resources, generally not exceeding $2,000 for individuals or $3,000 for married couples. Resources include assets such as cash, bank accounts, property, and vehicles.
2. Citizenship or Residency
- You must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen with specific immigration statuses granted by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
- You must also reside in one of the 50 states, Washington, D.C., or the Northern Mariana Islands. Continuous residence outside these areas may disqualify you from receiving SSI.
3. Age or Disability
- You must be 65 or older, or
- You must have a qualifying disability or be legally blind.
4. Absence from the U.S.
- You cannot be absent from the U.S. for a full calendar month or for 30 consecutive days. Those who are incarcerated or confined to an institution are generally not eligible.
How to Apply for SSI in 2025
Applying for SSI is simple, and you can get started online or by phone. Here are the steps:
1. Apply Online
- Visit the SSA SSI application page.
- You will need to create or log in to your My Social Security Account to begin the application.
2. Apply by Phone
- Call the Social Security Administration (SSA) at 1-800-772-1213 to make an appointment.
- If you are hearing impaired, you can use the TTY number 1-800-325-0778.
3. In-Person Appointment
- You can also visit your local Social Security office for assistance. It’s recommended to schedule an appointment to avoid long wait times.
Make sure to have the necessary documentation, including proof of income, resources, citizenship status, and medical records if applying based on disability.
Additional Considerations for SSI
Special Conditions
- If you are receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), it may affect your SSI eligibility.
- SSI benefits are typically reduced if your income exceeds a certain amount, but certain types of income are excluded from calculation (such as the first $20 of most income received in a month).
- You may also qualify for back payments if it takes some time for your application to be processed, with payments starting from the date you apply.
If you meet the qualifications for SSI benefits in 2025, you could receive up to $967 per month to help cover basic expenses.
The COLA increase will raise payments starting in December 2024, making it a valuable source of support for low-income individuals with disabilities, blindness, or those aged 65 and older.
Make sure to check your eligibility and start your application through the Social Security Administration to ensure timely access to this financial assistance.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the $967 SSI payment in 2025?
Low-income individuals who are disabled, blind, or aged 65 or older.
When does the COLA increase take effect for SSI?
The COLA increase will be effective on December 31, 2024, for SSI recipients.
How can I apply for SSI benefits?
You can apply online through the SSA website, by phone, or in person at a local Social Security office.
What are the income limits for SSI eligibility?
Income must be below a certain threshold, generally under $2,000 in assets for individuals or $3,000 for couples.
Can I receive SSI if I live outside the U.S.?
You must reside in the 50 U.S. states, D.C., or the Northern Mariana Islands. Continuous absence may disqualify you.
