Who qualifies
Age 65+ (or any age if blind/disabled) with very limited income and assets. 2026 resource limits are $2,000 single / $3,000 couple (your home and one car don't count).
What you get
Maximum federal monthly cash payment of $994 for an eligible individual or $1,491 for an eligible couple in 2026. Countable income can reduce the payment, and some states add a supplement.
Federal figures verified July 16, 2026. Sources: SSA 2026 SSI payment amounts; SSA 2026 COLA Fact Sheet.
Tips that matter
SSI is needs-based and separate from Social Security retirement. You can receive both if your retirement benefit is small. Applying for SSI usually triggers automatic Medicaid enrollment in most states.
How to apply
Start at ssa.gov/ssi or call 1-800-772-1213. The full application requires an interview.
State-level help on top of this
Most states layer their own programs on top of this federal one — pharmacy assistance, property tax relief, state Medicaid waivers. Pick your state to see what's available where you live.