Retirement benefits can give Americans an average payment worth $1,909. However, average amounts may be misleading. While one retiree can receive $4,873 in 2024, the maximum benefit, others may just get 800 dollars.
If you are a new Social Security retirement beneficiary, you may have realized you are on a shoestring budget. Therefore, it is time to explore ways to increase your earnings.
| Important links |
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| Food Stamps |
| PAYMENTS |
| stimulus checks |
| SSDI |
First of all, you can also apply for SSI (Supplemental Security Income) if you are at least 65 years old and have a low income and little money on hand. This is particularly important if you filed at 62, because you were too young to qualify for SSI.
SSI AND RETIREMENT BENEFITS
Although many American retirees are missing out on SSI payments, it is possible for them to get both benefits if eligible. Sometimes you are too young to be eligible but you are blind or have a disability.
For your information, being blind or having a qualifying disability allows you to cash SSI. If you would like to find out if you are eligible for SSI while on retirement benefits, you can check it online.
The Social Security Administration has a tool to check it if you visit https://www.ssa.gov/ssi/eligibility. Select “adult” or a “child” option and then enter your pre-tax monthly work earnings. Finally, enter your benefit amounts and click on see results to check SSI eligibility.
SNAP BENEFITS AS A RETIREE
If you struggle to make ends meet, you may qualify for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. It is known as SNAP and it was the former Food Stamps program.
SNAP benefits can supplement retirement benefits. Getting the two of them at the same time is possible. In fact, the maximum amount you could receive is $291 (single) and up to $1,751 (8 members).
Even if you are not sure whether you can receive SSI or SNAP, you should apply. Living on a low income is not pleasant and they could be a great financial help.