How to Report Income for SSI Benefits

Takeaways

• Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a needs-based program that provides financial assistance to individuals with limited income and resources, including adults 65 and older and people with disabilities.

• SSI recipients must report all sources of income, including earned income, unearned income, in-kind support and maintenance, gifts and financial assistance, and other resources. They can do so via several channels, including online, phone, and in person.

• Failure to report income accurately and on time can lead to overpayments, penalties, reduced benefits, or suspension of payments.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a needs-based program administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA) that provides financial assistance to individuals with limited income and resources, including older adults and people with disabilities. Because SSI eligibility and benefit amounts depend on financial need, recipients must report all sources of income to the SSA to ensure compliance with program rules and avoid potential overpayments or benefit reductions.

Types of Income That Must Be Reported

SSI recipients must report all sources of income, including:

• Earned Income. Wages from a job, self-employment income, and any work-related bonuses or tips.
• Unearned Income. Social Security benefits, pensions, unemployment benefits, workers’ compensation, and any other government or private financial assistance.
• In-Kind Support and Maintenance. This includes shelter or housing assistance received from family, friends, or charitable organizations.
• Gifts and Financial Assistance. Cash gifts, inheritances, and financial support from relatives or friends.
• Other Resources. Any changes in assets, such as bank accounts, property, or investments, that may affect eligibility.

In addition to reporting income, SSI recipients are required to report work expenses related to their disability; and for those who are blind, any work expenses.

How to Report Change of Income

Recipients must report income changes as soon as possible, but no later than the 10th day of the month following the month in which the income was received. The SSA provides several reporting methods:

• Online. The Social Security account portal (for those receiving wages from an employer).
• Phone. Call the SSA toll-free at 1-800-772-1213 or use the automated SSI telephone wage reporting system.
• Mobile App. Use the SSA’s mobile wage reporting application.
• Mail. Send documentation, e.g., pay stubs, benefit statements, to a local Social Security office.
• In Person. Visit a local SSA office to report income and provide documentation.

Consequences of Failing to Report Income

Failure to report income accurately and on time can lead to overpayments, which recipients must repay. In cases of repeated or intentional underreporting, the SSA may impose penalties, reduce benefits, or even suspend payments.

Help With SSA Benefits

Timely and accurate income reporting is key for SSI recipients to maintain their benefits and comply with SSA regulations. By understanding what income must be reported and using the available reporting methods, recipients can ensure they continue to receive the correct benefit amount without disruptions or penalties. Contact an experienced special needs planning attorney near you for help navigating SSI and other SSA benefits.

For additional reading about Social Security benefits, check out the following articles:

• Social Security Disability Benefits: An Overview
• Can I Collect Social Security and Still Work?
• The Basics of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
• What Assets Count When Applying for SSI?
• Social Security Simplifies Online SSI Application