The Social Security Administration (SSA) recently announced that the cost-of-living and other adjustments for 2018.
The maximum Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payment will increase from $735 to $750 per month for eligible individuals. For eligible couples, the maximum monthly payment will increase to $1,125. SSI is a benefit available to people 65 or older, disabled, or blind and who have very limited income and assets.
The maximum substantial gainful activity limit will also go up in 2018. For blind individuals the limit will be $1,970 per month. For non-blind individuals, the substantial gainful activity limit will be $1,180 per month. SSA uses substantial gainful activity as an initial screen to test SSI disability applicants. In general, individuals earning more that the substantial gainful activity limit per month will have their applications denied. For those on Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), the substantial gainful activity limit is also the maximum a person can earn per month while remaining on SSDI.
The trigger for a trial work period for individuals potentially returning losing disabled status and returning to the work force will increase from $840 to $850 per month.
General social security retirement benefits will increase by 2.0% in 2018. The average payment will $1,258 per month.
For any questions about SSI, or applying for SSI, please call Martha C. Brown & Associates at (314) 962-0186.
