If you’re 65 years old and your Social Security check is too low, applying for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) might be a viable option to help boost your monthly income.
The SSI program is designed to provide financial assistance to individuals with limited income and resources, including seniors, disabled adults, and children. Here’s what you need to know about qualifying for SSI if you’re a senior with a low Social Security check.
Qualifying
SSI eligibility largely depends on two key factors: your income and your resources. Since you are already receiving a low Social Security check, you may meet the income requirements, but let’s break down the essentials.
Income Limits
To qualify for SSI, your income must be low enough to meet the strict limits set by the Social Security Administration (SSA). This includes your Social Security payments as well as other income like pensions, wages, or investments.
SSI benefits are typically reduced by the amount of other income you receive, which is why someone with a low Social Security check might still qualify for some SSI support.
Resource Limits
Aside from income, the SSA has resource limits to determine your eligibility. Resources include cash, savings, real estate (other than your home), and certain personal property.
To qualify for SSI, your resources must not exceed $2,000 if you’re single or $3,000 if you’re married. Essential items like your home and one vehicle are generally not counted as resources.
Seniors Eligible for SSI
Seniors who are at least 65 years old and have low income and resources are prime candidates for SSI. If you’ve reached 65, the age qualification alone could make you eligible for SSI if you meet the financial requirements.
Even if you are receiving Social Security, you can still apply for SSI if your Social Security payments are insufficient to cover your basic needs.
SSDI Recipients
If you’re younger than 65 but receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) due to blindness or a qualifying disability, you might still qualify for SSI. However, the qualification would be based on your disability status rather than your age.
U.S. Citizenship Requirement
In addition to financial and age or disability criteria, you must also be a U.S. citizen or national to qualify for SSI. Some non-citizens may be eligible under certain conditions, but they would need to meet specific residency and immigration status requirements.
SSI Payments for Those Receiving Social Security
The maximum SSI payment for an individual is $943 per month as of 2024, but this amount is often reduced if you receive other income, such as Social Security. Your SSI payment will be calculated based on how much income you have from other sources.
For example, the average SSI payment for seniors 65 and older is about $575 per month as of August 2024, while those between the ages of 18 and 64 receive about $744 on average.
The average Social Security check may also affect your SSI amount. If you are already receiving Social Security, the amount of your SSI benefit is likely to be reduced so that your combined income doesn’t exceed the federal SSI maximum benefit level.
SSI Payments Breakdown by Age
Here’s a breakdown of average SSI payments by age group:
| Age Group | Average SSI Payment (August 2024) |
|---|---|
| 65 and older | $575 |
| 18 to 64 | $744 |
| Under 18 | $820 |
As you can see, seniors typically receive lower SSI payments compared to younger recipients. The payment amount varies depending on other income sources, which explains why there is such a difference in average payments.
Applying
If you’re struggling to make ends meet with your current Social Security payments, applying for SSI is a straightforward process.
You can start the application online through the Social Security Administration’s website or schedule an appointment at your local Social Security office. Make sure to have documentation of your income, resources, and citizenship status to ensure a smooth application process.
It’s important to apply as soon as you realize you may qualify. SSI can provide valuable financial relief, especially if your Social Security check is not enough to cover your living expenses. For those over 65, SSI can make a significant difference in meeting daily needs like housing, food, and medical care.
The combination of Social Security and SSI can help seniors like you live more comfortably, especially when dealing with limited financial resources.
FAQs
Can I apply for SSI if I’m 65 and on Social Security?
Yes, if your Social Security check is too low, you can apply for SSI.
What’s the maximum SSI payment in 2024?
The maximum SSI payment is $943 per month.
How much does the average 65-year-old get from SSI?
The average payment for seniors 65 and older is about $575.
Can SSI help if I’m receiving SSDI?
Yes, if you have low income and resources, SSI can supplement SSDI payments.
What are the resource limits for SSI?
Resources must not exceed $2,000 for individuals or $3,000 for couples.
