Did you know you might qualify for a powerful trio of government benefits—Social Security, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and Medicaid—at the same time?

If you’re over 60, retired, or living on a fixed income, this could be a game-changer for your financial and healthcare security.

Yet millions of Americans don’t realize they’re eligible for this “triple play” of support.

Understanding the big three: Social Security, SSI, and Medicaid​

Let’s start with the basics:

• Social Security is the retirement or disability benefit based on your work history and payroll contributions.
• SSI (Supplemental Security Income) is a needs-based program for people with limited income and assets, even if they haven’t worked.
• Medicaid provides health coverage for low-income individuals and can cover many services that Medicare doesn't.

Here’s what many don’t realize: You can qualify for all three at once—if you meet the criteria.

Around 2.5 million Americans, including over 1.4 million seniors, already receive both Social Security and SSI, and many of them are also enrolled in Medicaid.

Who qualifies for this benefit bonanza?​

The rules may seem confusing, but here’s a breakdown:

• Social Security: Based on your work record—available for retirees, people with disabilities, and surviving spouses or dependents.
• SSI: You must have limited income and resources. If you’re under 65, you also need a qualifying disability or blindness. If you’re 65 or older, there’s no disability requirement, just the financial ones.
• Medicaid: Most SSI recipients automatically qualify, but some states have additional steps.

Also read: Are you getting up to $2,000 from Social Security this week? See who qualifies for Wednesday's big payout!

Income and asset limits: What counts and what doesn’t​

For 2025, the federal SSI income limit is:

• $967/month for individuals
• $1,450/month for couples

This includes Social Security payments and most other sources of income like pensions, unemployment, or veterans’ benefits.

If you're working, the partial of your earned income per month is excluded, and only half of the rest is counted. If you’re self-employed, business expenses are deducted first.

Asset limits are:

• $2,000 for individuals
• $3,000 for couples

But don’t panic—your primary home, one vehicle, some burial funds, and disaster relief grants are excluded. Assets that do count include extra vehicles, stocks, bonds, and cash.

If you’re married, your spouse’s income and assets are factored in. For children, slightly more generous rules apply.

How SSI can boost your retirement income​

Already getting Social Security, but your check is small?

SSI can supplement your income to help cover basic needs like food and housing.

These two programs are designed to work together. However, to qualify for both, you’ll need to meet federal income and asset rules—and sometimes, living arrangements (like living with someone who helps with bills) can affect your benefit amount.



Also read: No SSI payment in June? The simple reason has to do with the calendar

Medicaid: The healthcare lifeline​

Here’s where it gets even better. In most states—called "1634 states"—if you qualify for SSI, you’re automatically enrolled in Medicaid. That means help with:

• Doctor visits
• Prescription medications
• Hospital stays
• Long-term care

In "209(b) states", Medicaid isn’t automatic, and you’ll need to apply separately. The rules can be stricter, but the payoff—comprehensive health coverage—can be life-changing.

If you’re on Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you typically get Medicare after a 24-month wait. But you might also qualify for Medicaid if your income is low enough. This "dual eligibility" helps cover Medicare premiums and out-of-pocket costs.

How to apply for the triple combo​

Ready to get started? Here’s what to do:

1. Check Your Eligibility: Visit SSA.gov or call 1-800-772-1213 to check your status and ask questions.
2. Apply for SSI and Social Security: You can apply online or at your local Social Security office. Have your income and asset details ready.
3. Apply for Medicaid (if needed): In many states, SSI approval means you’re automatically enrolled. In others, contact your state’s Medicaid office.
4. Use Online Tools: Visit Benefits.gov for personalized help and state-specific guidance.

For many seniors and people with disabilities, receiving Social Security + SSI + Medicaid isn’t just a financial boost—it’s life-changing.

These programs can help cover essentials like rent, food, and medical care, and provide peace of mind in retirement or during health challenges.

Read next: 2025 rules for SSI: Are you at risk of losing your benefits?
Have you applied for these benefits? Have questions or stories to share? Join the conversation in the comments below—your experience might help someone else take the first step toward getting the support they deserve.