Let’s squash the myths about extra security income and work! You can work and still be eligible for SSI but it takes organization and understanding of 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 65 years of age or older and have limited income and resources. You must meet all three requirements to be eligible.
SSA definition of legal blindness
Social Security has a specific definition of legal blindness. An individual is considered legally blind if he or she is in the better eye with the best correction:
• Visual acuity 20/200 or worse
• Field of view is 20 degrees or less
Other disabilities qualify an individual for SSI. Your state’s Disability Determination Services (DDS) reviews the medical records and makes the final decision.
SSI benefit amounts for 2026
• $994 per month for an eligible individual
• $1,491 per month for an eligible married couple when both individuals qualify
In-kind support and maintenance (ISM)
If Social Security determines that someone else is helping pay for shelter, utilities, or certain other needs, your SSI benefits may be reduced for in-kind support and maintenance (ISM).
The standard reduction is a reduction of one-third.
For approximately 2026:
• $663 per month per person
• $997 per month for eligible couple
SSI Resource Limits
• $2000 per person
• $3,000 for eligible couple
Resources include cash, bank accounts, and some other assets. ABLE accounts are excluded.
Work while receiving SSI
SSI has several work incentives, allowing individuals to work and receive benefits.
Student Earned Income Exclusion (SEIE)
• Individuals under the age of 22 years, and
• Full-time student at SSA Eyes
You may earn up to:
• $2,410 per month, and
• $9,730 annually
They still receive full SSI payments.
Wages must be reported and proven to meet the SSA definition of a full-time student. This incentive allows young people to gain work experience while maintaining financial stability.
Business expenses
We focus on work incentives available to individuals who meet Social Security’s definition of legal blindness. Other disabilities will refer to Disability Related Employment Expenses (IRWE) while we will focus on Blind Employment Expenses (BWE).
Blind Working Expenses (BWE)
BWEs allow individuals to deduct earned income spent on items or services needed for business. These expenses need not be related to blindness.
Examples include, but are not limited to:
• Transportation, such as taxis, Lyft, Uber, or paratransit
• Income taxes
• Dog expense guide
• Unpaid medications or treatment
• Accessibility tools paid out of your pocket
These deductions reduce countable earned income per dollar, which may result in increased SSI payments.
example:
This example is for someone:
• Receives State Security Investigations only
• He earns $1,500 a month in wages
• He does not receive any 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
• Total income earned: $1,500
• Excluding student earned income: $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 business expenses: minus $425
• Countable earned income: $282
Step 4: Final SSI Amount
• Full SSI benefit: $994
• Subtract countable earned income: $282
SSI Pay: $712
• Wage addition: $1,500
Total monthly income: $2,282
Capable accounts
The Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) account allows eligible individuals to save money without exceeding SSI resource limits.
Reports and overpayments
Reporting wages and changes in circumstances helps reduce the risk of SSI overpayment. While overpayments can still occur, keeping good records and following reporting requirements improves your ability to appeal or request a waiver if necessary.
resources
Social Security Administration: https://www.ssa.gov
SSA Red Book (Work Incentives): https://www.ssa.gov/redbook
