Let’s crush the myths about Supplemental Security Income and work! You can work and still be eligible for SSI but it takes organization and understanding the system. We are focusing on SSI and will focus on Title II benefits (SSDI, CDB,etc.) in a later article.
What Is SSI?
SSI is a federal program created in 1972 and began processing cash benefits in 1974. Administered by the Social Security Administration under Title XVI of the Social Security Act, SSI provides monthly cash payments to individuals who are blind, disabled or age 65 or older, with limited income and resources. You must meet all three requirrements to be eligible.
SSA Definition of Statutory Blindness
Social Security has a specific definition of statutory blindness. An individual is considered statutorily blind if, in the better eye with best correction:
• Visual acuity is 20/200 or worse, or
• Visual field is 20 degrees or less
Other disabilities qualify an individual for SSI. Your state’s Disability Determination Services (DDS) reviews medical records and makes the final determination.
SSI Benefit Amounts for 2026
• $994 per month for an eligible individual
• $1,491 per month for an eligible couple when both individuals qualify
In-Kind Support and Maintenance (ISM)
If Social Security determines that someone else helps pay for your shelter, utilities or some other needs, your SSI benefit may be reduced due to In-Kind Support and Maintenance (ISM).
The standard reduction is a one-third reduction.
For 2026, approximately:
• $663 per month for an individual
• $997 per month for an eligible couple
SSI Resource Limits
• $2,000 for an individual
• $3,000 for an eligible married couple
Resources include cash, bank accounts, and certain other assets. ABLE accounts, are excluded.
Working While Receiving SSI
SSI has several work incentives, allowing individuals to work and receive benefits.
Student Earned Income Exclusion (SEIE)
• Individuals under age 22, and
• A full-time student in the eyes of SSA
May earn up to:
• $2,410 per month, and
• $9,730 per year
and still receive their full SSI payment.
Wages must be reported, and the proof that they meet SSA’s definition of a full-time student. This incentive allows young people to gain work experience while maintaining financial stability.
Work Expenses
We are focusing on work incentives available to individuals who meet Social Security’s definition of statutory blindness. Other disabilities will refer to Impairment Related Work Expenses (IRWE) while we will focus on Blind Work Expenses (BWE).
Blind Work Expenses (BWE)
BWEs allow individuals to deduct earned income spent on items or services needed for work. These expenses do not need to be related to blindness.
Examples include, but are not limited to:
• Transportation, such as taxis, Lyft, Uber or paratransit
• Income taxes
• Guide dog expenses
• Unreimbursed medications or therapy
• Accessibility tools paid for out of pocket
These deductions reduce countable earned income dollar for dollar, which can increase the SSI payment.
Example:
This example is for someone who:
• Receives SSI only
• Earns $1,500 per month in wages
• Receives no other cash benefits
Step 1: Unearned Income
• Unearned income (SSDI, DAC, CDB, etc.): $0
• Unearned income exclusion: minus $20
• Countable unearned income: $0
Step 2: Earned Income
• Gross earned income: $1,500
• Student Earned Income Exclusion: $0
•General earned income exclusion: minus $65
•Remaining general exclusion: minus $20
Subtotal: $1,415
• Divide by 2: $707.50
Step 3: Blind Work Expenses
• Blind work expenses: minus $425
• Countable earned income: $282
Step 4: Final SSI Amount
• Full SSI benefit: $994
• Subtract countable earned income: $282
SSI payment: $712
• Add wages: $1,500
Total monthly income: $2,282
ABLE Accounts
An Achieving A Better Life Experience (ABLE) account allows eligible individuals to save money without exceeding SSI resource limits.
Reporting and Overpayments
Reporting wages and changes in circumstances helps reduce the risk of an SSI overpayment. While overpayments can still occur, maintaining good records and following reporting requirements improves your ability to appeal or request a waiver if needed.
Resources
Social Security Administration: https://www.ssa.gov
SSA Red Book (Work Incentives): https://www.ssa.gov/redbook
Achieving A Better Life Experience National Resource Center