If both spouses qualify for SSI, they receive a maximum couple's benefit, which is less than the sum of two individual benefits.[1]
The SSI income limit for an individual in 2023 is $914 per month, while for couples, it's $1,371 per month.
The income of a working spouse is considered in determining eligibility for SSI and the amount receivable through the deeming process.
SSI calculates the portion of the non-SSI-eligible spouse's income that is deemed available to the SSI applicant.[2]
There are specific provisions like the Student Earned Income Exclusion and Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS) that allow individuals to work while receiving SSI.
Changes in a spouse’s income must be reported to the Social Security Administration to ensure accurate SSI benefit calculation and to avoid penalties.
The question of whether you can receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) if your spouse works involves understanding the SSI program and how it assesses income and assets. SSI is designed for individuals who are disabled, blind, or aged 65 or older and have little to no income.
This blog discusses all these aspects to answer the question of, “can you get SSI if your spouse works?”
Yes, you can potentially qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits even if your spouse works.
Eligibility For SSI As A Couple: If both you and your spouse qualify for SSI, you are subject to a maximum couple's benefit, which is lower than the sum of two individual benefits.[1] This is important to consider when both partners are eligible for SSI​​.
Income Limits: Generally, for SSI, an individual should not earn more than $1,913 per month from work. However, this income limit increases for couples and when parents apply for children. This suggests that the income of a spouse can affect the eligibility and benefit amount of the other spouse​​.
Deeming Of Spouse’s Income: The concept of “deeming” plays a crucial role in SSI eligibility. If you are married and your spouse has an income, the SSI program might consider a part of your spouse's income as available to you.[2] This means that the income of a working spouse can affect the eligibility for SSI of the other spouse​​.
Income Limits For Couples In 2023: As of 2023, the SSI income limit for a single person is $914 per month, and for couples, it's $1,371 per month. If you're married and living together, a portion of your spouse's income will count towards these income limits. This implies that if your spouse's earnings exceed certain thresholds, it could potentially disqualify you from receiving SSI or reduce the amount you're eligible for​​.
“For SSI eligibility, the resource limits are $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple.”
We've answered some of the most common questions about whether you can get SSI if your spouse works, to help you gain a more clear understanding of this.
Yes, you can still qualify for SSI if your spouse is employed, but your spouse's income will be considered in determining your eligibility and the benefit amount.
In 2023, the income limit for couples to qualify for SSI is $1,371 per month.
The SSA calculates the portion of the non-SSI-eligible spouse’s income that can be considered as available to the SSI applicant. This calculation includes applying certain exclusions before deeming the income.
If both spouses qualify for SSI, they are subject to a maximum couple’s benefit, which is lower than the sum of two individual benefits.
Yes, the SSA has special rules, such as the Student Earned Income Exclusion and Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS), which allow you to work while receiving SSI.
You must report any changes in your spouse’s income to the Social Security Administration, as these changes can affect your SSI benefits. Failure to report can lead to overpayments and penalties.
So, can you get SSI if your spouse works? Yes, you can potentially qualify for and receive SSI benefits if your spouse has income from work, as long as you still meet the program guidelines. The key is staying under the household income and resource limits. Speaking to a benefits counselor could help clarify how your spouse's particular work situation impacts your eligibility.
Our detailed guide explains all about SSI Child Tax Credit and how to avail the benefits . Learn more by visiting Benefits Aid and exploring our comprehensive resources.