Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a Federal income supplement program funded by general tax revenues designed to help aged, blind, and disabled people who have little or no income by providing cash to meet basic needs for food, clothing, and shelter. SSI serves as a critical support structure in the social safety net, yet many recipients may not fully understand the extent of benefits available to them.

The amount of money an individual can receive each month from SSI varies based on several factors, including the state in which they live, their living arrangements, and other income they might have. The maximum federal SSI benefit changes yearly based on cost-of-living adjustments. In 2023, the SSI monthly maximum benefit rate is $914 for an eligible individual and $1,371 for an eligible individual with an eligible spouse. People who are blind may receive slightly higher payments.

However, it’s worth noting that some states supplement the federal SSI benefit with additional payments; thus the amount a recipient can actually get could be higher than the federal cap. States that do not provide additional SSI funding include Arizona, Mississippi, North Dakota, and West Virginia, along with the Northern Mariana Islands.

Therefore, if you’re an SSI recipient or considering applying for SSI benefits, it is essential to inquire with your local Social Security office to understand your specific circumstances better and discover exactly how much money you can expect to receive per month. Remember that the exact amount will depend on various personal factors and may require accounting for state supplementation when applicable.