The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program is intended to provide financial assistance to people with severe disabilities that significantly limit their ability to earn a living. The December payment will be issued early this month, on Friday, November 29, because December 1 is a Sunday.
Administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA), SSI aims to meet recipients’ basic needs by providing financial assistance that can make a significant difference in the lives of millions of people.
Who is eligible for SSI payments?
It’s worth noting that receiving regular Social Security benefits does not automatically qualify someone for SSI, as the two programs are distinct and have different eligibility requirements. Eligibility for SSI is determined by meeting specific medical and financial criteria. The primary requirements are:
- Medical conditions: Applicants must have a physical or mental disability that severely limits daily activities for at least 12 consecutive months or is expected to result in death. Individuals with partial or total blindness may also qualify.
- Income and asset limits: The program is intended for those with low income and limited resources who lack sufficient financial support to sustain themselves.
How much can you receive with SSI?
The amount SSI beneficiaries receive varies depending on individual circumstances. As of 2024, the maximum monthly payments are as follows:
- Individual applicants: Up to $943 per month.
- Couples applying jointly: Up to $1,415 per month.
- Essential persons: Those who care for SSI beneficiaries may receive up to $472 per month.
These figures reflect a 3.2% increase in 2024 due to a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), which ensures payments keep up with inflation and retain their value against rising living costs.
Key differences between SSI and other Social Security benefits
Although administered by the Social Security Administration, SSI operates independently of other benefits such as retirement or disability payments. As a result, someone receiving Social Security retirement or disability benefits does not automatically qualify for SSI, and vice versa.
SSI, unlike other Social Security programs, is funded by general federal tax revenues rather than payroll taxes. This distinction enables SSI to focus solely on providing financial assistance to the most vulnerable populations, regardless of employment history.
How to calculate your SSI payment
The Social Security Administration has an online tool that SSI recipients can use to get a rough idea of how much money they will get each month. This calculation takes into account things like income, resources available, and the make-up of the household.
Visit the SSA website and use the online calculator to find out how much you might be able to get. This tool can help you make a better budget plan and understand how your payments are coming up.
What to do if you don’t receive your payment on November 29
SSI payments are usually sent on time, but sometimes there are delays because of problems with the system or the person receiving the payment’s bank account. If your payment doesn’t show up when you thought it would, do these things:
- Wait three business days: Payments may sometimes take a bit longer to process.
- Check with your bank: Confirm that there are no issues with your account.
- Contact the Social Security Administration: If you still haven’t received your payment after three business days, reach out to your local SSA office to investigate the delay.
On November 29, millions of people who get SSI will get their December payment early. This early payment helps people who depend on the program to meet their basic needs by giving them much-needed money. If you are a beneficiary, make sure you know if you are eligible and make plans based on that.
SSI is still an important resource for people with severe disabilities and financial problems because it helps them with money and other things that are important for their daily health. By giving this help, the program keeps being a lifeline for people who need it the most.