How Much Money Can You Make And Still Get SSI

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program that provides financial assistance to individuals with disabilities, including those with limited income and resources. However, there are income limits in place to determine eligibility for SSI benefits. In this article, we will explore how much money you can make and still qualify for SSI, along with important considerations and frequently asked questions.

Understanding SSI Income Limits

SSI benefits are intended to provide a safety net for individuals with disabilities who have limited income and resources. To qualify for SSI, you must meet certain income and resource limits set by the Social Security Administration (SSA).

The income limits for SSI are based on the Federal Benefit Rate (FBR), which is the maximum monthly SSI payment. As of 2021, the FBR is $794 for individuals and $1,191 for couples. However, not all income is counted when determining eligibility for SSI.

Countable Income

Countable income refers to the income that is considered when determining SSI eligibility. Some examples of countable income include:

Earned income: Wages, salaries, and self-employment income
Unearned income: Social Security benefits, pensions, and rental income

In-kind income: Food, shelter, or other items received for free or at a reduced cost

It’s important to note that not all income is counted in full. The SSA applies certain exclusions and deductions to determine the countable income. For example, the first $20 of most income received in a month is not counted, and there are also deductions for certain work-related expenses.

Income Limits

The income limits for SSI vary depending on the state in which you reside. In most states, the income limit is equal to the FBR. However, some states have higher income limits, known as “209(b) states.” In these states, the income limit can be up to three times the FBR.

For example, if you are an individual living in a 209(b) state with a monthly income of $2,382 (three times the FBR), you may still be eligible for SSI benefits. However, it’s important to consult with the SSA or a qualified professional to determine the specific income limits in your state.

Working While Receiving SSI

SSI also provides incentives for individuals to work and become self-sufficient. The SSA has implemented several programs and rules to support individuals with disabilities who want to work while receiving SSI benefits.

Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)

SGA refers to the level of work activity that is considered substantial and may disqualify an individual from receiving SSI benefits. As of 2021, the SGA limit is $1,310 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,190 per month for blind individuals.

Work Incentives

The SSA provides several work incentives to support individuals with disabilities who want to work. Some of these incentives include:

Impairment-Related Work Expenses (IRWE): Deductions for certain expenses related to your disability that enable you to work

Blind Work Expenses (BWE): Deductions for expenses related to your blindness that enable you to work
Trial Work Period (TWP): A nine-month period during which you can test your ability to work without losing your SSI benefits
Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS): A program that allows you to set aside income and resources for a specific work goal

These work incentives help individuals with disabilities maintain their SSI benefits while transitioning into the workforce. It’s important to understand and utilize these incentives to maximize your income while still receiving SSI benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I work part-time and still receive SSI?

Yes, you can work part-time and still receive SSI benefits. The SSA provides work incentives and deductions to support individuals with disabilities who want to work. However, your countable income must not exceed the SGA limit to remain eligible for SSI.

2. Are there any income exclusions when determining SSI eligibility?

Yes, the SSA applies certain exclusions and deductions when determining countable income for SSI eligibility. For example, the first $20 of most income received in a month is not counted, and there are deductions for certain work-related expenses.

3. What happens if my income exceeds the SGA limit?

If your countable income exceeds the SGA limit, you may no longer be eligible for SSI benefits. However, the SSA offers various work incentives and deductions to encourage individuals with disabilities to work. It’s important to understand and utilize these incentives to maximize your income while still receiving SSI benefits.

4. How do income limits vary by state?

The income limits for SSI vary by state. In most states, the income limit is equal to the FBR. However, some states have higher income limits, known as “209(b) states.” In these states, the income limit can be up to three times the FBR. It’s important to consult with the SSA or a qualified professional to determine the specific income limits in your state.

5. Can I receive SSI benefits if I have savings or assets?

SSI has resource limits in addition to income limits. As of 2021, the resource limit is $2,000 for individuals and $3,000 for couples. However, not all assets are counted when determining eligibility. Some examples of excluded resources include the primary residence, one vehicle, and certain personal effects.

6. How often does the SSA review my income and eligibility for SSI?

The SSA conducts periodic reviews to ensure that individuals receiving SSI benefits still meet the eligibility criteria. The frequency of these reviews depends on various factors, such as the severity of your disability and the likelihood of medical improvement. It’s important to report any changes in your income or circumstances to the SSA to avoid potential overpayments or loss of benefits.

Summary

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) provides financial assistance to individuals with disabilities who have limited income and resources. The income limits for SSI are based on the Federal Benefit Rate (FBR) and vary by state. Countable income, which includes earned