How Much Money Can You Make and Still Get SSI in 2025?
How Much Money Can You Make and Still Get SSI?
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal assistance program designed to help individuals who are elderly, blind, or disabled and have limited income and resources. If you're wondering how much money you can earn while still qualifying for SSI, you're not alone. Understanding the financial eligibility criteria can be tricky but crucial for maintaining your benefits. Let’s dive into the specifics of how income affects SSI eligibility and what you need to know to navigate the system effectively.
What Is SSI and Who Qualifies?
SSI is a program administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA) that provides monthly payments to qualifying individuals. Unlike Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), which is based on work history, SSI is need-based. To qualify, you must meet the following criteria:
Be age 65 or older, blind, or disabled.
Have limited income and resources.
Be a U.S. citizen or certain eligible non-citizen.
Understanding SSI Income Limits
The SSA sets strict income limits to determine eligibility for SSI. These limits can be broken into two main categories: earned income (wages from work) and unearned income (money from sources like Social Security benefits, pensions, or gifts). Here's how they affect your SSI benefits:
1. Earned Income
The SSA excludes a portion of your earned income when calculating your eligibility. Here’s how it works:
The first $65 of earned income per month is excluded.
After the $65 exclusion, the SSA only counts half of the remaining earned income.
For example, if you earn $300 in a month, the SSA will exclude the first $65, leaving $235. Half of $235 is $117.50, which is the amount counted toward your income limit.
2. Unearned Income
Unearned income is generally counted dollar-for-dollar, with a few exceptions. For instance:
The first $20 of unearned income per month is excluded. This is called the “General Income Exclusion.”
The remainder of your unearned income is counted toward your limit.
3. Resource Limits
In addition to income limits, SSI has resource limits:
$2,000 for individuals.
$3,000 for couples.
Resources include cash, bank accounts, stocks, and certain other assets. However, some items, like your home and one vehicle, are excluded.
How Much Can You Make and Still Qualify?
The maximum federal benefit rate (FBR) for SSI in 2025 is $914 per month for individuals and $1,371 for couples. Your countable income reduces this benefit amount dollar-for-dollar. Here’s a simplified breakdown:
If your countable income (earned and unearned) exceeds the FBR, you won’t qualify for SSI.
For example, if you have $500 in countable income, your SSI benefit would be $414 ($914 - $500).
Keep in mind that some states supplement the federal SSI benefit with additional payments. These state supplements can increase the amount you receive and slightly affect income limits.
Special Circumstances That Affect Income Limits
1. Student Earned Income Exclusion
If you’re under 22 and regularly attending school, you may qualify for the Student Earned Income Exclusion (SEIE). This allows you to exclude up to $2,220 of earned income per month (up to a yearly limit of $8,950 in 2025).
2. Impairment-Related Work Expenses (IRWE)
If you’re disabled and incur expenses for work-related items or services, such as specialized transportation or assistive devices, these costs can be deducted from your earned income.
3. Blind Work Expenses (BWE)
If you’re blind, you can exclude any expenses related to earning income, such as transportation, guide dogs, or equipment, from your earned income.
How to Report Your Income to SSA
Reporting your income accurately and on time is crucial to avoid overpayments or interruptions in your benefits. Here are the steps:
Keep Records: Save pay stubs, receipts, and bank statements.
Report Monthly: Report your income to the SSA by the 10th of the following month.
Use Available Tools: You can report income through the SSI Telephone Wage Reporting system, the SSI Mobile Wage Reporting app, or by visiting your local SSA office.
What Happens If You Exceed the Income Limits?
Exceeding the income or resource limits will result in the suspension or termination of your SSI benefits. However, the SSA offers options to reinstate benefits quickly if your income decreases again. For example:
Section 1619(b): This provision allows individuals to keep Medicaid coverage even if their earnings are too high to receive SSI cash benefits, provided they meet other requirements.
Expedited Reinstatement: If your benefits ended due to income but you become eligible again within five years, you can request expedited reinstatement without a new application.
Strategies to Maximize Benefits
To ensure you’re getting the most out of your SSI benefits, consider the following:
Understand Exclusions: Take full advantage of income exclusions like the $65 earned income exclusion and any applicable work-related expense exclusions.
Monitor Resources: Regularly check your resources to ensure they stay within limits.
Consult a Specialist: Work with a benefits counselor or financial advisor who understands SSI rules.
Final Thoughts
SSI is a lifeline for millions of Americans, but navigating the income limits and rules can be complex. By understanding how earned and unearned income affect your benefits, staying within resource limits, and reporting accurately, you can ensure that you continue to receive the support you need. Always consult with the SSA or a qualified advisor to address your unique situation and avoid costly mistakes.
