Supplemental Security Income Help
Need-based support for those who cannot work.
Takes about 2 minutes · No obligation · We call back within one business day
No attorney fee unless you win. Fees are approved by Social Security and paid from past-due benefits; you may owe out-of-pocket costs such as record fees.
Understanding SSI
SSI provides monthly income for people with limited resources who are disabled, blind, or age 65 or older.
SSI is Need-Based
You must meet strict income and resource limits set by the federal government. We help you understand what counts.
Same Disability Standard
For adults, SSI uses the same medical rules as SSDI: your condition must keep you from earning above Social Security's monthly limit and last, or be expected to last, at least 12 months.
Usually Includes Medicaid
In Texas and most states, SSI approval automatically qualifies you for Medicaid coverage for doctors, medication, and treatment.
Who SSI Helps
SSI is designed for people with very limited income and resources who cannot work due to a disability, blindness, or age 65+.
- Adults with disabilities who have low income and limited resources
- Children under 18 with disabilities evaluated under a separate child standard, whose household meets income and resource limits
- Seniors age 65+ with limited income regardless of disability
- People who are blind meeting SSA vision criteria and income limits
Financial Requirements
SSI has strict financial limits. We help you understand what counts as income and resources.
Income Limits
Your monthly income must be below federal SSI limits. This includes wages, Social Security, pensions, and some other income.
Not all income counts—we help you understand the rules.
Resource Limits
Your countable resources (bank accounts, property, vehicles) must be below $2,000 for an individual or $3,000 for a couple (as of January 2026).
Your home and one vehicle typically don't count.
Medicaid Connection
In most states, SSI approval automatically qualifies you for Medicaid health coverage—helping with medical costs.
State rules vary—we explain your state's system.
Ready to Check Your SSI Eligibility?
We'll review your financial and medical situation and help you understand if SSI is right for you.
Takes about 2 minutes · No obligation · We call back within one business day
No attorney fee unless you win. Fees are approved by Social Security and paid from past-due benefits; you may owe out-of-pocket costs such as record fees.
Medical Disability Standard
For adults, SSI uses the same medical rules as SSDI. Your condition must be severe enough to keep you from earning above Social Security's monthly limit.
- Condition must last (or be expected to last) at least 12 months or result in death
- Medical records, doctor statements, and test results are essential
- Social Security looks at whether you can do any kind of work that exists in significant numbers, not just your past jobs
SSI vs SSDI: Simple Comparison
Both provide disability benefits, but they have different financial rules. Some people qualify for both.
SSDI
Based on your work history and Social Security taxes paid.
- Requires sufficient work credits
- No asset limits; wages above Social Security's monthly earnings limit can affect eligibility
- Medicare after 24 months
SSI
Based on financial need—very low income and limited resources.
- No work credits required
- Strict income and resource limits
- Medicaid in Texas and most states
Some people qualify for both SSDI and SSI at the same time (concurrent benefits). We help you determine which programs you're eligible for.
Ready to Apply for SSI?
Free case review. We'll help you understand your eligibility and guide you through every step.
No attorney fee unless you win. Fees are approved by Social Security and paid from past-due benefits; you may owe out-of-pocket costs such as record fees.
SSI for children and adults 65 or older
Children under 18 are evaluated under a different standard: their condition must cause marked and severe functional limitations. Adults 65 or older can qualify for SSI based on income and resources alone, without meeting the disability standard.
We focus on adult SSDI and SSI claims. If you are seeking benefits for a child, call us and we can refer you to a firm that handles them.
Quick answers
What is the difference between SSDI and SSI?
SSDI is insurance for people who worked and paid Social Security taxes; it pays based on your earnings record and leads to Medicare after 24 months. SSI is need-based for people with very limited income and resources and usually comes with Medicaid. Some people qualify for both.
How much does disability pay in 2026?
SSDI depends on your lifetime earnings. The maximum federal SSI payment in 2026 is $994 a month for an individual and $1,491 for a couple, reduced by countable income. Figures as of January 2026.
How much does a Social Security disability lawyer cost?
Under a standard fee agreement, there is no attorney fee unless you win. Social Security approves the fee and pays it from your past-due benefits — the lesser of 25% or $9,200 (2026). You may owe small costs such as medical-record copy fees.
Does ClearPath handle SSI claims for children?
We focus on adult SSDI and SSI claims. A child's claim is decided under a different medical standard, so if you are seeking benefits for a child, call us and we will refer you to a firm that handles them. There is no charge for that conversation.
Reviewed by Tatiana AlexanderLast reviewed