What income qualifies for SSI disability?
By Hogan Smith
Updated 05/05/2025
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a needs-based disability program run by the Social Security Administration (SSA). To qualify, you must meet strict income and asset limits in addition to proving your medical disability.

Understanding what counts as income—and what doesn’t—can help you determine if you're financially eligible for SSI disability benefits.
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What Counts as Income for SSI?
The SSA considers two main types of income when evaluating your eligibility for SSI:
Earned Income
This includes wages from a job or self-employment. The SSA doesn’t count every dollar of earned income—they exclude the first $65 and then deduct half of the remainder.
Example:
If you earn $1,000 per month:
- First $65 is excluded → $935
- Then divide $935 by 2 → $467.50 counted toward SSI
Unearned Income
This includes money you receive from other sources, such as:
- Social Security benefits (excluding SSI)
- Unemployment or workers' compensation
- Pensions
- Support from family or friends (including free rent or food)
Unearned income is generally counted dollar for dollar after certain exclusions.
What Is the Income Limit for SSI in 2025?
As of 2025, the federal benefit rate (FBR)—the maximum monthly SSI payment—is:
- $943 for an individual
- $1,415 for a couple
To qualify, your countable income must be less than these amounts after exclusions.
Some states offer state supplemental payments, which may raise the income threshold slightly depending on where you live.
What Income Is Not Counted?
The SSA excludes many types of income when calculating eligibility, including:
- The first $20 of most unearned income
- The first $65 of earned income, and half of the rest
- SNAP (food stamps)
- Home energy assistance
- Income tax refunds
- Small gifts or help that doesn’t provide for basic needs
Understanding these exclusions is critical when calculating whether your income qualifies.
Deemed Income from Spouses or Parents
If you live with a spouse or are a child living with parents, their income may be “deemed” to you. This means a portion of their income is considered yours for eligibility purposes.
How to Track Your Income for SSI
Since income eligibility can change monthly, it's important to:
- Report changes in your earnings to the SSA
- Keep pay stubs, bank statements, and records of any support you receive
- Use the SSA’s online wage reporting tool or mobile app for timely updates
Failure to report income changes can lead to
overpayments, which the SSA may later ask you to repay.
How Hogan Smith Can Help You
At Hogan Smith, we help clients determine whether they meet SSI income rules and ensure their applications are accurate and complete. We can assist with:
- Calculating your countable income and identifying excluded income
- Reviewing your financial situation for eligibility risks
- Helping you document and report income properly to the SSA
- Guiding you through state-specific rules that may affect SSI amounts
Contact Hogan Smith Today
If you're unsure whether your income qualifies for
SSI disability, reach out to
Hogan Smith for a
free consultation. We’ll evaluate your financial situation, walk you through your options, and help you move forward with confidence.
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