How to Qualify for Financial Relief from Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
If health problems have kept you from working for a long time, or much ever, you can look to Supplemental Security Income (SSI) disability benefits for financial help.
But many people in Arizona run into an important question: How much income or savings can I have and still qualify for SSI?
Let’s start with the basics. SSI is different from other disability benefits run by Social Security. It is designed for people who have eligible disabilities—and have very limited income and financial resources.
Because of that, the Social Security Administration looks closely at your finances before approving your benefits, not just your health impairments.
Understanding these limits can feel stressful, especially when you already deal with medical problems and financial pressure. The good news is that you don’t have to figure this out alone.
The Arizona disability lawyers at Slepian Ellexson have helped Arizonans since 1978.
We know what Social Security is looking for and what their guidelines are, and we can help you move forward when the application process feels overwhelming.
You don’t pay a fee for a disability lawyer to help with your SSI claim until you win benefits.
How Income Affects SSI Eligibility in Arizona
To qualify for SSI, Social Security looks closely at how much income you have coming in. SSI is designed for people who have very limited financial means and cannot support themselves through work.
So, one of the first things Social Security considers is whether you are working.
They use a standard called “substantial gainful activity (SGA).” In simple terms, SGA is a monthly earnings limit from work. If you earn more than this amount, Social Security usually assumes you don’t have a disability that stops you from working, so you will not qualify for SSI or any other disability benefits.
For 2026, the SGA limit was set at $1,690 per month. If you earn less than that, you may still qualify for benefits.
Social Security also looks at income other than wages from work. This can include things like unemployment benefits, workers’ compensation, pensions, insurance payments, legal settlements, or financial help you receive from other people.
Some income counts fully, some counts partially, and some doesn’t count at all, when they decide if you have the allowed income for SSI. The rules are detailed, and many people are surprised by what Social Security does or doesn’t include.
The key point is this: having some income doesn’t automatically disqualify you from SSI. But Social Security doesn’t count every dollar the same way. Have your situation reviewed to get clear answers.
Get your FREE SSI benefits claim review from Slepian Ellexson
Resource Limits for SSI Benefits in Arizona
Besides the limits in income allowed for SSI, SSI has strict rules about what you can own.
To qualify, you must have very limited resources. This generally includes cash, money in bank accounts, investments, and certain types of property. If your resources are above Social Security’s limits, your SSI claim will be denied even if you have serious health problems and aren’t working.
Some resources usually don’t count, including your primary home, one vehicle, and basic personal belongings. Other items may count, such as extra vehicles, savings accounts, investment accounts, or property you do not live in.
The limits are extremely strict:
- $2,000 for an individual applying for SSI
- $3,000 for a qualifying couple
This is one way SSI is different from the other disability benefits program run by Social Security: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).
For SSDI, you still can’t earn more than SGA from current work, but there isn’t a limit on other financial means you have saved up.
Small details can make a big difference in whether you get SSI.
Because these rules are complicated, many people are unsure where they stand. Some never apply because they think they have too much. Others apply without realizing a financial detail will bring a denial.
Experienced guidance matters.
At Slepian Ellexson, our Arizona disability attorneys take the time to review your full picture. We look at your income, your resources, your living situation, and your medical condition. We explain how Social Security is likely to view your case and what steps you can take to strengthen it.
If you’re ready to apply, we help prepare your SSI application carefully and correctly.
If you have already been denied, we help you appeal and present your case clearly to Social Security. We handle the paperwork, deadlines, and legal arguments so you can focus on your health.
Our firm has helped thousands of Arizonans steady their lives through disability benefits.
We’re a local, Arizona firm, founded by a former Social Security judge, and we know the system inside and out. At Slepian Ellexson, you work directly with a disability attorney who treats you with dignity and respect.
And you never pay a legal fee unless we win your benefits.
A fresh chance and a more stable future may be within reach.
