SSI is a Title XVI federal needs-based benefit, funded by general tax revenue (not the Social Security trust fund) and administered by SSA on behalf of the Treasury Department. Unlike SSDI, SSI does not require any work history.
Eligibility is based on resources (under $2,000 for individuals, $3,000 for couples) and income. The maximum federal SSI in 2026 is $967 per month for individuals and $1,450 for couples. Many states add a supplemental payment.
SSI pays on the 1st of each month. When the 1st lands on a weekend or federal holiday, payment shifts backward to the prior business day. That creates months with two SSI deposits and months with no SSI deposits in the calendar, but the annual total stays at 12 payments.