This one trips people up: Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is not the same as your Social Security check. Social Security is based on the work you did over your life. SSI is a separate, need-based program — monthly cash for people who are 65 or older (or blind or disabled) and have very little income and few resources. Some people receive both.
For 2026, the maximum federal SSI payment is $994 a month for an individual and $1,491 for a couple (Source: SSA.gov) — a 2.8% increase from last year. Many states add their own supplement on top. And here’s a quiet bonus: in most states, getting SSI automatically qualifies you for Medicaid, so it opens a door to health coverage too.
To qualify, your countable resources must be under $2,000 for an individual or $3,000 for a couple (Source: SSA.gov). But — and this matters — not everything counts. The home you live in doesn’t count, and usually one car doesn’t count. Many people who think their small savings disqualify them are surprised to learn they’re under the limit.
You apply through Social Security — for free, always. Be wary of anyone who asks to charge you to apply for a government benefit; that help is free, and Ada would never send you anywhere that charges for it.
Ada’s Bottom Line
1. SSI is need-based monthly cash for people 65+ (or blind/disabled) with low income — separate from your Social Security retirement check.
2. 2026 maximum: $994/month individual, $1,491 couple (Source: SSA.gov). In most states SSI also gets you Medicaid.
3. The resource limit is $2,000 (individual) / $3,000 (couple) — but your home and usually one car don’t count. Apply free through SSA.
The resource rules are more forgiving than they sound. To see what you personally qualify for — with your own numbers and state — use GoldieCircle’s free Benefits Checker (the “Find Benefits” option in Ask Goldie). For free, one-on-one help, your local SHIP counselor is wonderful (Source: Medicare.gov).
Ada spent more than 30 years as a SHIP benefits counselor helping seniors and families understand Medicare, Medicaid, and the programs that help pay for them. Confused by a letter, a form, or a bill? Ask Ada.
💡 Have a question for Ada? Use “Questions from readers” just above — Ada answers within the hour. Comments here are for sharing with other members (but Ada reads them too).
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