Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a benefit program managed by the Social Security Administration that provides monthly payments to people who are older, blind or have a disability and face significant financial challenges. About 7.4 million people received SSI benefits in November 2025, including about 2.5 million people ages 65 and older.
To apply for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, you should contact the Social Security Administration. Read to learn more.
Supplemental Security Income, or SSI, is a federal benefit program administered by the Social Security Administration that provides safety-net financial support for people in need. You may qualify for monthly SSI payments if: you are 65 or older, blind or have a disability; you are a U.S. citizen or lawful resident; and you have very limited income and financial resources.
Because SSI is a means-tested program, Social Security considers a wide range of income and financial support in determining eligibility. The monthly payments can be reduced or even erased if you receive income from work or other sources, including ISM, although in the case of in-kind support the reduction is capped at about a third of the ...
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) provides monthly payments for people who are older, blind or have a disability and are in financial need. The Social Security Administration (SSA), which administers the program, sets strict limits on how much SSI beneficiaries can earn and on the level of financial assets, such as savings or stocks, they can own.
Social Security was put in charge of SSI when the program was established in 1972 to replace a patchwork of state programs that provided federally financed benefits for people who are older, blind or have a disability and are in financial need. Most states offer supplemental benefits to some SSI recipients.