Supplemental Security Income will top $1,000 a month for the first time in 2027: the maximum federal payment for one person goes to $1,029, and for a couple to $1,544, after a 3.6% cost-of-living adjustment.
The Social Security Administration announced the adjustment on Oct. 14, 2026, and its Office of the Chief Actuary posted the new SSI amounts the same day. Disability Scoop reported the new SSI figures the same day.
The 2027 numbers
| Item | 2026 | 2027 |
|---|---|---|
| Cost-of-living adjustment | 2.8% | 3.6% |
| SSI federal maximum, individual | $994 | $1,029 |
| SSI federal maximum, couple | $1,491 | $1,544 |
| Substantial gainful activity, non-blind | $1,690 | $1,770 |
| Substantial gainful activity, blind | $2,830 | $2,950 |
About 7.3 million people get SSI. Their higher payments start with the check dated Dec. 31, 2026. Nearly 72 million Social Security beneficiaries see the increase with January 2027 payments.
The federal maximum is a ceiling. Social Security subtracts countable income, and some states add their own supplement, so many people's checks will differ. Notices go out by mail in December. People with a my Social Security account can see theirs online from late November if they sign up for paperless notices by Nov. 18.
Why this matters for providers and DSPs
Many adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities rely on SSI for rent, food and personal spending, so the new amount will show up in household budgets in group homes and supported living arrangements. Provider agencies that act as representative payees should plan to update budgets and any room-and-board amounts once the December notices arrive.
The higher substantial gainful activity limit matters for people in jobs. Earnings above $1,770 a month in 2027 can count as substantial work when Social Security reviews disability, so job coaches and direct support professionals helping someone plan hours should use the new figure.