Social Security Q&A

Q: What is Supplemental Security Income, or SSI?

A: The SSI program provides monthly payments to people with limited income and financial resources who are age 65 or older, blind or disabled. In 2010, the maximum federal SSI payment is $674 a month for an individual and $1,011 a month for an eligible couple. This amount may be reduced if you have other income.

Many states supplement SSI payments. Go to www.socialsecurity.gov to view electronic leaflets about these state supplements.

To get SSI, your financial resources (savings and assets you own) cannot exceed $2,000 ($3,000 if married). If you are married and only one person is eligible, a portion of your spouse's income may be counted. You can be eligible for SSI even if you have never worked in employment covered under Social Security.

Generally, to be eligible for SSI, an individual also must be a resident of the United States and must be a U.S. citizen or a noncitizen lawfully admitted for permanent residence. In addition, some noncitizens granted a special immigration status by the Department of Homeland Security also may be eligible.

For more information, you may want to read SSI (Publication No. 05-11000). You also may want to read our introductory material in the booklet, Understanding SSI. Both are available at www.socialsecurity.gov.

Q: Are Supplemental Security Income, or SSI, benefits subject to federal income tax?

A: No. SSI payments are not subject to federal taxes. However, if you also receive Social Security benefits, those benefits may be subject to income taxes.

This column was prepared by the Social Security Administration. For fast answers to specific Social Security questions, contact Social Security toll-free at 800-772-1213.