Benefits: Resource Test for SSI Recipients

The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefit program has specific resources limitations that are set by statute and include real estate or personal property. Resources must not exceed the specified amount on the first day of each month. The resource limits are not subject to regular cost-of-living increases and the current limit is $2,000 for individuals and $3,000 for couples. Resources in excess of these limits on the first day of a month will render individuals or couples ineligible for SSI cash benefits in that month. Ineligibility will continue until resources fall below the allowable limit.

If ineligibility continues for 12 consecutive months, entitlement to SSI benefits will cease.

For SSI purposes, a resource is anything an individual owns which could be changed into cash and used for food or shelter.

The Social Security Administration sometimes counts resources of a spouse, parent, or the sponsor of an alien and that sponsor’s spouse.