How Are SSI Disability Payments Calculated

SSI Payment Formula:

\[ SSI = \text{Federal Rate} - \text{Countable Income} \]

SSI Payment Amount:

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From:	To:

1. What is SSI?

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal income supplement program funded by general tax revenues (not Social Security taxes). It helps aged, blind, and disabled people who have little or no income by providing cash to meet basic needs for food, clothing, and shelter.

2. How SSI Payments Are Calculated

The basic SSI payment calculation is:

\[ SSI = \text{Federal Benefit Rate} - \text{Countable Income} \]

Where:

Federal Benefit Rate — The maximum monthly SSI payment set by federal law (changes annually)
Countable Income — The portion of your income that SSI considers when calculating your payment

Key Points: The actual calculation can be more complex as SSI excludes certain income and resources, and state supplements may apply.

3. Understanding the Components

Federal Benefit Rate: For 2023, the federal benefit rate is $914/month for an individual and $1,371/month for a couple. These amounts typically increase slightly each year for cost-of-living adjustments.

Countable Income: This includes earned income (wages, self-employment), unearned income (Social Security benefits, pensions, gifts), and in-kind support (food or shelter you get for free or less than fair market value).

4. Using the Calculator

Instructions: Enter the current federal benefit rate (check SSA.gov for current amounts) and your total countable income. The calculator will determine your estimated SSI payment.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What income is not counted for SSI?
A: The first $20 of most income, first $65 of earnings plus half of remaining earnings, SNAP benefits, housing assistance, and most home energy assistance.

Q2: Can I get SSI if I have other income?
A: Yes, but your SSI payment will be reduced by your countable income. If your countable income equals or exceeds the federal benefit rate, you won't qualify for SSI.

Q3: How often are SSI payments made?
A: SSI payments are typically issued on the 1st of each month. If the 1st falls on a weekend or holiday, payments are issued on the preceding business day.

Q4: What's the difference between SSI and SSDI?
A: SSI is needs-based (low income/resources) while SSDI is based on work credits. Some people qualify for both programs.

Q5: Do all states use the same federal benefit rate?
A: Some states add money to the federal SSI payment (called a "state supplement"). Check with your local Social Security office for state-specific amounts.