Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program administered by the Social Security Administration that provides monthly payments to eligible adults and children. These payments are funded by U.S. Treasury general funds, not Social Security trust funds, and is designed to help meet basic needs for food, clothing, and shelter.

Individuals or couples with limited income and resources are eligible if they meet one of the following criteria:

1. are at least 65 years old,
2. are blind, or
3. have a qualifying disability expected to last at least one year or result in death.

Additionally, all applicants must be U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens residing in one of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, or the Northern Mariana Islands.

The SSA defines income and resource limitations for individuals and couples. Some states have higher limits than this baseline.