2026 SSI basics
| Individual | Couple | |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum federal payment | $994/month | $1,491/month |
| Resource limit | $2,000 | $3,000 |
Your payment is reduced by countable income. Some resources don't count, such as your home and generally one vehicle. Most SSI recipients in Arkansas also qualify for Medicaid.
How VA benefits affect SSI
VA disability compensation and VA pension count as unearned income for SSI, so they generally reduce your SSI payment dollar for dollar after a small exclusion. Many veterans with VA compensation will not qualify for SSI but may qualify for SSDI, which isn't reduced by VA benefits.
Children
Children can qualify for SSI if they have a condition that causes marked and severe functional limitations, and their household meets the financial rules (a portion of parents' income and resources is counted).
Back pay
SSI is payable beginning the month after the month you apply (or the month after you file a protective filing). It doesn't pay for months before the application, so applying promptly matters. Large SSI back payments may be paid in installments.
We'll help you figure out whether SSI, SSDI, or both may apply.
Official sources
SSA: SSI · SSA: SSI payment amounts 2026 · SSA: 2026 COLA fact sheet
General information, not legal advice. 2026 figures from SSA. Last reviewed October 2026.