It is true the amount of money paid out through Supplemental Security Income (SSI) went up for 2019, helping to make up for inflation and related issues, but it did not rise by all that much. It is important for those considering the benefits to know exactly what they may be able to get.
In 2018, the maximum amount paid out during a year (unrounded) was $9,007.46. It then went up 2.8% for 2019, bringing the unrounded total to $9,259.67. That is the amount for a disabled individual.
Couples do get more. An eligible couple — meaning that both members of the couple are disabled and entitled to SSI — could get up to $13,509.70 in 2018. That total also rose by a small percentage, taking it to 13,887.97 for 2019.
For budgeting purposes, it is often best to consider what the maximum monthly payment looks like. That is the money that you are actually going to see if you qualify. For 2019, the payment for an individual is $771 and the max payment for a couple is $1,157.
Even though this income isn’t a lot, entitlement to SSI benefits also generally allows you entitlement to state-based medical care, like Medicaid at little (or no) cost. This can cover your hospital care, doctor’s visits and prescriptions. You may also qualify for other benefits, like financially-assisted housing, free transportation and other needs-based assistance.
As you get started with this process, be sure you also know exactly what legal steps to take to get your claim approved the easiest way possible.
