In the United States, the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program is a vital source of support for millions of people with limited incomes, including those over 65, people with disabilities and children with disabilities. This program helps meet basic needs such as food, clothing and shelter, especially for those who have no other means of support.
As 2025 approaches, the Social Security Administration has announced that the requirements to get SSI will remain unchanged from 2024. While the payment amount may be subject to adjustment due to factors such as COLA (cost-of-living adjustment), the eligibility criteria for the program remain the same.
However, beneficiaries should be mindful of how these requirements affect their situation and how they can ensure they meet all conditions to qualify for payments in the new year. Let’s take a look at what those essential requirements are for getting SSI in 2025 and some tips on how to increase SSI payments.
Eligibility for SSI in 2025
To be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) in 2025, applicants must meet several criteria established by the Social Security Administration. Importantly, these requirements are unchanged from those in 2024, meaning that those who are already getting the benefit can continue without concern, as long as they maintain their eligibility status.
The requirements for getting SSI in 2025 are as follows:
- Age or disabling condition: Applicants must be over 65 or have a disability that significantly prevents them from working. This includes both adults and children with disabilities.
- Citizenship or legal status: To get SSI, applicants must be United States citizens or eligible non-citizens. This includes lawful permanent residents or people with an immigration status that allows them to get benefits.
- Income Requirements: Applicants must have income that does not exceed the limit set by the Social Security Administration. This limit varies depending on factors such as place of residence and household size.
- Net worth requirements: The applicant must have limited assets. By 2025, the resource limit for a single person will be $2,000 and for couples $3,000. This includes savings, non-homestead property, bank accounts, among others.
- United States Residency: The applicant must reside in the United States or certain U.S. territories in a lawful manner.
It is critical that applicants keep their documents up to date and report any changes in their financial or personal situation that may affect their eligibility for SSI. The Social Security Administration conducts periodic reviews, so it is important to be aware of the requirements throughout the year.
How do you increase SSI payments?
Although SSI has set limits on payments, there are a few ways that recipients can maximize the benefits they get. Although the basics of the program are fixed, there are certain factors that can influence the amount a person gets, such as the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) and additional work. Here are some strategies for getting the most out of SSI:
- Take advantage of the COLA: The cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) is an annual increase in payments made to compensate for increases in the prices of goods and services. This adjustment helps maintain beneficiaries’ purchasing power in the face of inflation. In 2025, the COLA is expected to be 2.5%, which will increase SSI recipients’ payments.
- Avoid exceeding income limits: It is important to keep your income below the established limits to avoid having your SSI payment reduced or even terminated. If you have additional income, make sure it does not exceed the allowable thresholds to maintain your eligibility.
- Use resource exemptions: Some types of assets and resources do not count toward the SSI asset limit. For example, a primary residence is not considered a resource, so it is helpful to make sure your assets do not exceed the limits set for eligibility.
- Check for additional assistance programs: Some states offer SSI supplemental assistance programs. These programs may provide additional payments to help with housing or health care expenses.
Remember, if you qualify and keep your financial situation within the allowable limits, you can get SSI on an ongoing basis and take advantage of any adjustments or additional benefits that may be available.