1. What is SSI?

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal income supplement program funded by general tax revenues (not Social Security taxes). It's designed to help 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 Benefits Are Calculated

The basic SSI calculation is simple:

Where:

• Federal Rate — The maximum monthly SSI payment set by federal law
• Countable Income — The portion of your income that SSI considers when calculating your benefit

Key Points: Your SSI benefit amount is reduced by your countable income. If your countable income exceeds the federal rate, you won't qualify for SSI benefits.

3. Understanding the Components

Federal Rate: This is the maximum monthly SSI payment amount set by law. It typically increases slightly each year due to cost-of-living adjustments (COLA). As of 2023, the federal benefit rate is $914 for an individual and $1,371 for a couple.

Countable Income: This includes wages, Social Security benefits, pensions, and other income, minus certain exclusions. Not all income counts toward SSI eligibility.

4. Using the Calculator

Instructions: Enter the current federal SSI rate and your countable monthly income. The calculator will determine your estimated SSI benefit amount. Remember that actual benefits may vary based on your specific circumstances and state supplements.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What income counts toward SSI?
A: Countable income includes wages, Social Security benefits, pensions, and other cash income, minus certain exclusions like the first $20 of most income received in a month.

Q2: Are there state supplements to SSI?
A: Many states add money to the federal SSI payment. Your total SSI benefit could be higher if you live in one of these states.

Q3: How often is the federal rate updated?
A: The federal benefit rate is typically adjusted annually based on cost-of-living increases, effective each January.

Q4: What if I have in-kind support?
A: If someone provides you with food or shelter, this may be counted as "in-kind support" and could reduce your SSI benefit.

Q5: How does work income affect SSI?
A: SSI has special rules that exclude part of your earnings when figuring your countable income, allowing you to work and still receive SSI.