Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a financial needs based program. For this reason the Social Security Administration has set rules in place to determine who meets the non-medical requirements of SSI, whether or not medical disability is proven.
There are no work requirement rules for SSI as there is with Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), but to qualify for SSI, total household income and assets can determine eligibility.
The income limit to qualify for SSI for an individual in 2012 is $698 per month. The limit for couples is $1,048 per month. This is total income received, but work income is calculated differently.
If a person is working only half that income is counted toward the maximum limits for SSI. For example, if a worker earns $600 a month from work only $300 is counted toward the $698 monthly maximum.
In addition to work income other income and total household income may be considered when determining eligibility for SSI.
Other income considered includes:
- Veteran’s benefits, pensions, alimony and child support.
- Any shelter or food benefits you receive from NON-Governmental sources. This would include being allowed to live rent free and receiving free food from relatives.
- A portion of other income earned by other people living in your household.
The following is a list of income items EXCLUDED from the SSI income limit:
- $20 per month of income other than earned income from wages.
- $65 per month of wages and one-half of wages over $65.
- The first $30 of infrequent or irregular earned income in a quarter.
- The first $60 of infrequent or irregular unearned income in a quarter.
- Medical care including Medicaid.
- The reimbursement of expenses from a social service agency.
- Food stamps and housing or home energy assistance.
For more information visit: http://www.disabilitysecrets.com/resources/social-security-disability/supplemental-security-income-ssi/income-limits.htm.
