Understanding SSI -- SSI Spotlight on Getting SSI Benefits While You Try to Sell Excess Resources (2024)

CAN I GET SSI IF I HAVE EXCESS RESOURCES?

To get Supplemental Security Income (SSI), your countable resources must not be worth more than $2,000 for an individual, or $3,000 for a couple. However, you may be able to get conditional payments if you agree to sell some of your countable resources.

WHAT KINDS OF THINGS CAN I SELL?

You can sell the following types of things:

	real property, such as land or a house that you don't live in; or
	personal property, such as non–excluded vehicles (for example, a second car).

HOW DOES THIS WORK?

	While you are trying to sell real property, you can receive SSI benefits for up to 9months under certain conditions.
	While you are trying to sell personal property, you can receive SSI benefits for up to 3months.
	We may pay you even longer if you meet certain conditions.

WHAT DO I HAVE TO DO?

	Your conditional benefits cannot begin until after you sign the “agreement to sell property” form and we accept the agreement. You also have to demonstrate that you are diligently pursuing the sale of the property.
	The agreement form is available at your local Social Security office. Ask us for more details.

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER I SELL MY REAL AND/OR PERSONAL PROPERTY?

	You will have to pay back some or all of the SSI benefits you received while trying to sell the property.
	You may continue to get SSI benefits. Contact your local Social Security office to find out if your SSI benefits will continue after the sale.