As an individual, you can generally earn up to $1,971 from work each month without losing your Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. This figure represents a general threshold for work income eligibility for individuals.
Understanding SSI Income Limits
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is designed to provide financial assistance to individuals who have limited income and resources. The Social Security Administration (SSA) sets specific income limits to determine eligibility for these benefits.
For an individual, the general rule is that if you earn more than $1,971 from work in a month, you may exceed the income threshold for SSI eligibility. It's crucial to understand that this limit primarily applies to your earned income (wages from work).
How Income Affects SSI Benefits
While there's a general income limit, not all income counts dollar-for-dollar against your SSI benefits. The Social Security Administration has specific rules, known as "income disregards," that allow certain portions of your income to be excluded when calculating your countable income. For example, a portion of your earned income is typically not counted. However, earning above the general threshold of $1,971 from work each month can make an individual ineligible for SSI.
Different Scenarios for Income Limits
The $1,971 monthly work income limit applies specifically to individuals. The income limits can be different in other situations:
- For Couples: If you are married and both you and your spouse are applying for or receiving SSI, the combined income limit will be higher than for an individual.
- For Children: When parents apply for SSI benefits on behalf of their children, the income limits also increase, taking into account the parents' income and resources.
Here's a summary of the general work income thresholds:
| SSI Recipient Type | General Monthly Work Income Limit |
|---|---|
| Individual | $1,971 |
| Couples | Higher (exact amount varies) |
| Parents Applying for Children | Higher (exact amount varies) |
It's important to note that the exact higher amounts for couples and children are subject to specific calculations based on various factors, but they will exceed the individual limit.
Important Considerations for SSI Recipients
To ensure you maintain your SSI eligibility and benefits, it's essential to:
- Report All Income: Always report any changes in your income, including new jobs, pay raises, or changes in hours, to the Social Security Administration promptly.
- Understand Different Income Types: SSI considers various types of income (earned income, unearned income, in-kind support and maintenance) differently. Each type has specific rules and disregards.
- Monitor Resources: Beyond income, SSI also has limits on the value of resources (assets) you can own.
- Seek Clarification: If you have questions about how your specific income or circumstances affect your SSI, it's always best to contact the Social Security Administration directly for personalized guidance.
