The Social Security Administration (SSA) is “committed to helping maintain the basic well-being and protection of the people we serve.” According to current estimates, the SSA pays benefits to roughly 68 million people, many of whom are retirees, children, and surviving spouses. One of the programs that the SSA oversees is Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which pays “monthly benefits to people with limited income and resources who are blind, age 65 or older, or have a qualifying disability.” In order to qualify for SSI benefits, you will need to meet the eligibility requirements. Since SSI is intended to support those with limited incomes, the income of your spouse can have a significant impact on your SSI eligibility and the amount of benefits you are eligible to receive. Let’s take a look at spouse income SSI eligibility in Washington state and how working with a highly experienced and caring Spokane SSI lawyer can help you resolve any questions or concerns you may have about your SSI benefits.
How SSI Eligibility Works in Washington State
SSI is what’s known as a needs-based benefit. This means that you will need to show that your income falls below a certain threshold in order to qualify for SSI assistance. The current 2025 SSI federal benefit rate is $967 for an individual or a child and $1,540 for a couple who qualifies for SSI assistance. The amount you are entitled to receive each month depends on your countable income (i.e., wages, other Social Security benefits, etc.), your living arrangements, and any state supplement programs. In Washington state, the State Supplementary Payment (SSP) Program can provide additional assistance to those who qualify.
Can a Spouse’s Income Affect SSI Eligibility in Spokane?
If you are applying for SSI and you are married, the SSA “deems” a portion of your spouse’s income to be considered yours when assessing your eligibility. In other words, the SSA will count some of the income that your spouse receives as part of your income, which can push you over the SSI limits and disqualify you from receiving these monthly benefits. Sometimes, the deemed income will not push you over the threshold, but it may reduce the amount of monthly support you receive. If you have questions about SSI income limits for married couples or how your spouse’s income could affect your eligibility, reach out to a trusted and friendly Spokane SSI attorney for the customized guidance you deserve.
How a Skilled Spokane SSI Attorney Can Assist You
Determining whether you are eligible for SSI or calculating the amount of monthly assistance you are entitled to receive can be a difficult process. That’s why enlisting the support of a top social security disability lawyer in Washington state is highly recommended. Whether you are wondering whether you can still qualify for benefits if your spouse works or you want to know more about the SSI application process, you deserve trusted legal guidance from a qualified SSI attorney. If you have questions about your SSDI or SSI eligibility in Washington state, the dedicated legal team at Schott Law is ready to assist you. Please reach out to our Spokane office today by calling (509) 328-5789 to get started with an experienced and caring attorney.
