Quick answer
SSI provides monthly payments to people with disabilities and older adults who have little or no income or resources.[1] Unlike SSDI, it does not depend on work history. For adults, SSA uses the same definition of disability for SSI as for SSDI.[2] The 2026 federal payment standard is $994 per month for an individual and $1,491 for a couple.[3]
Who is eligible
SSA lists three eligibility requirements: little or no income, little or no resources, and a disability, blindness or age 65 or older.[1]
The definition of disability
SSA states that “for all individuals applying for disability benefits under title II, and for adults applying under title XVI, the definition of disability is the same”: the inability to engage in substantial gainful activity because of an impairment expected to result in death or to last at least 12 months.[2] SSA applies the same five-step process to both programs.[4] See SSDI for the steps.
Payment amounts
For 2026, the monthly federal SSI payment standard is $994 for an eligible individual and $1,491 for an eligible couple.[3] Actual payments can be lower because of other income, and some states add a supplement.
Medicaid
SSA explains that “in most States, individuals who qualify for SSI disability payments also qualify for Medicaid,” and that eligibility rules may vary from state to state.[2]
SSI and injury settlements
Because SSI depends on income and resources,[1] money received from an injury claim can affect eligibility. People in this situation often look at how a settlement is structured before it is finalized.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a work history for SSI?
No. SSI is based on financial need and disability, blindness or age.[1]
How much is SSI in 2026?
The federal payment standard is $994 per month for an individual and $1,491 for a couple.[3]
Does SSI come with health coverage?
In most states, people who qualify for SSI disability payments also qualify for Medicaid.[2]
This page provides general information about the law from the sources listed below. It is not legal advice, and reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws vary by state and change over time. See our legal disclaimer.
Sources
- Social Security Administration. “Supplemental Security Income (SSI).” https://www.ssa.gov/ssi
- Social Security Administration. “Disability Evaluation Under Social Security, Part I: General Information.” https://www.ssa.gov/disability/professionals/bluebook/general-info.htm
- Social Security Administration. “SSI Federal Payment Amounts for 2026.” https://www.ssa.gov/oact/cola/SSI.html
- Social Security Administration, POMS DI 22001.001, “Sequential Evaluation of Title II and Title XVI Adult Disability Claims.” https://secure.ssa.gov/apps10/poms.nsf/lnx/0422001001
Sources last checked: October 11, 2026
