The 2026 SSI federal payment amount

The federal SSI payment for 2026 is $943 per month for an individual with no other income. This is the base amount set by the federal government. The actual payment you receive may be higher if your state adds a supplementary payment on top of the federal amount.

This figure is set each year based on a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). The Social Security Administration announced the 2026 COLA in October 2025, which determined how much the 2026 payment would increase from 2025. The increase reflects changes in the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers.

If you are married and both spouses receive SSI, the federal payment is $1,415 per month combined. For an essential person (someone the SSI recipient needs help from to remain in the community), the federal payment is $472 per month.

Key Takeaways

  • The 2026 federal SSI payment is $943 monthly for an individual, set by the Social Security Administration and adjusted each October.
  • Your actual payment may be higher if your state provides a supplementary payment, which varies by state and household situation.
  • SSI payments are reduced dollar-for-dollar if you have other income, so earned income and unearned income both affect what you receive.
  • You can contact your local Social Security office or call 1-800-772-1213 to find out your specific payment amount and your state's supplementary rate.

How state supplementary payments change the amount you get

Twenty-nine states and Washington, D.C. provide supplementary payments on top of the federal SSI amount. These state supplements vary widely. Some states add only a few dollars per month; others add $100 or more. The amount depends on your state, your living situation, and whether you are an individual, couple, or essential person.

For example, California's state supplement for an individual living independently is significantly higher than the federal amount alone. New York, Texas, and Florida each have different supplement structures. Some states only supplement SSI for people living in their own homes, while others have different rates for people in group living situations.

To find your state's 2026 supplementary payment rate, contact your state's social services department or call your local Social Security office. The Social Security Administration publishes a state-by-state breakdown each year, but rates change, so calling is the fastest way to confirm the exact amount you will receive.

How your income reduces your SSI payment

SSI is a needs-based program, which means your payment is reduced if you have other income. The reduction is not dollar-for-dollar on all income—there are exclusions and thresholds that protect some earnings.

If you work, the first $65 per month of earned income is not counted, and half of everything above that is not counted. For example, if you earn $200 per month, $65 is excluded, leaving $135. Half of $135 ($67.50) is also excluded, so only $67.50 counts against your SSI payment. Unearned income (such as pensions, unemployment, or gifts) is treated differently and is counted more directly, though the first $20 per month of unearned income is excluded.

If your countable income exceeds the SSI payment amount for your category (individual, couple, or essential person), your SSI payment is reduced to zero. You remain may be able to access for Medicaid in most states even if your payment is zero, which is an important reason to report your income accurately.

When the 2026 payment takes effect

The 2026 SSI payment amount became effective on January 1, 2026. If you receive SSI, your January payment reflected the new federal amount and any state supplement adjustment for that year.

The Social Security Administration sends a notice each year showing your new payment amount. This notice typically arrives in December of the previous year. If you did not receive a notice or if your payment changed unexpectedly, contact your local Social Security office to confirm the reason.

Couples and household situations that affect payment

If you are married and both spouses receive SSI, you are treated as a couple for payment purposes. The 2026 federal payment for a couple is $1,415 per month combined. Some states have different supplementary rates for couples than for individuals, so your total may be higher or lower depending on where you live.

If you live with a parent or sponsor who signed your SSI application, your payment may be reduced through a process called "deeming." Deeming counts part of the sponsor's income as if it were yours. This reduction applies only to certain situations and does not apply indefinitely—deeming rules change based on your age and living arrangement.

If you are an essential person (someone the SSI recipient depends on for care), you may receive a separate SSI payment. The 2026 federal rate for an essential person is $472 per month, though state supplements may increase this amount.

How to find your specific 2026 payment amount

Your payment amount depends on your state, your living situation, and your income. The easiest way to find out what you will receive is to contact Social Security directly. Call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. your local time. You can also visit your local Social Security office in person or create an account on ssa.gov to view your payment information online.

When you call or visit, have your Social Security number ready. Ask the representative for your 2026 payment amount, your state's supplementary rate, and any changes that affect your payment. If your income has changed, report it at the same time so your payment is accurate going forward.

What changes if you move to a different state

If you move to a different state, your federal SSI payment stays the same, but your state supplement may change. Some states have higher supplements than others, and some states have no supplement at all. Your payment will be adjusted to reflect your new state's supplement rate.

The adjustment usually takes effect the month after you move and notify Social Security. Report your move to your local Social Security office as soon as possible so your payment is updated correctly. If you move mid-month, your payment for that month may be prorated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will SSI payments increase in 2027?

Yes, SSI payments increase each year based on the cost-of-living adjustment announced in October. The 2027 amount will be announced in October 2026. You will receive a notice showing your new payment amount in December 2026.

Does the 2026 SSI payment cover rent and food?

The federal payment of $943 per month is meant to cover basic living expenses, but it varies by state and individual circumstance. Many SSI recipients also receive food assistance (SNAP) and housing support to meet their needs. Contact your local social services office to learn what other programs may help you.

What happens if I earn money while receiving SSI?

Your SSI payment is reduced based on how much you earn, but not dollar-for-dollar. The first $65 per month is excluded, and half of earnings above that are also excluded. Report your work income to Social Security each month so your payment is calculated correctly.

Can I receive both SSI and Social Security retirement benefits?

Yes, but your SSI payment is reduced by the amount of your Social Security benefit. If your Social Security payment is higher than the SSI amount, you receive only Social Security. Contact Social Security to understand how your specific benefits interact.

What if I disagree with my 2026 payment amount?

Contact your local Social Security office to review how your payment was calculated. Ask for an explanation of any deductions or changes. If you believe an error was made, you can request a recalculation or file an appeal within 60 days of receiving your notice.