If you are receiving Social Security benefits and finding that your check is not enough to cover your living expenses, there are several ways you can increase the amount of financial assistance you receive.
Many Americans are unaware that they may be eligible for additional benefits, which can provide a crucial supplement to their Social Security payments.
These programs are designed to help those who have low incomes, limited resources, and specific needs, whether it’s related to disability, age, or other qualifying factors.
In this article, we will explore various government programs and benefits that can be combined with your Social Security payments to help improve your financial situation, including Supplemental Security Income (SSI), spousal benefits, SNAP, veterans’ benefits, and other state and federal programs.
1. Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
One of the most significant programs you may be able to access in addition to Social Security is Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSI is a federal assistance program designed to provide monthly payments to elderly, blind, or disabled individuals who have limited income and resources. Unlike Social Security, which is based on your work history and how much you’ve contributed over the years, SSI is a need-based program, meaning it is specifically for people who struggle financially.
In 2025, seniors aged 65 or older who are eligible for SSI can receive a base payment of $575 per month. However, the maximum amount an individual can receive is higher, $697. If you receive other benefits, such as Social Security, these payments may be reduced. SSI payments can be a great supplement if your Social Security check is lower than average, especially if you are unable to meet the cost of living with your existing income.
For example, if you receive a low Social Security check, you can apply for SSI benefits, which will help to bring your total monthly income closer to what is needed to meet your essential needs. It’s important to remember that SSI and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits can be combined, which means you may receive both if you qualify for both programs.
2. Spousal Benefits
Many people do not realize that they may be eligible for spousal benefits in addition to their own Social Security payments. Social Security allows an individual to receive up to 50% of their spouse’s retirement or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits once they turn 62. This can significantly increase your overall household income, especially if one spouse is receiving a higher amount than the other.
If you are already receiving Social Security retirement benefits or SSDI, it’s worth checking if you qualify for spousal benefits. To qualify, your spouse must either be receiving Social Security or SSDI benefits, and you must meet certain age requirements.
Additionally, if you are caring for a qualifying child under the age of 16, you may also be eligible for spousal benefits. The eligibility for spousal benefits is another way to maximize your financial support while on retirement or SSDI benefits, giving you access to additional monthly payments without needing to work.
3. SNAP Benefits
Another program that can help supplement your Social Security or SSDI benefits is SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program). SNAP, commonly known as food stamps, provides low-income individuals and families with funds to purchase food. For seniors and those on SSDI, this can be a valuable way to ensure you have enough money for groceries without having to stretch your budget too thin.
In 2025, you may be eligible for SNAP benefits even if you are receiving Social Security or SSDI. The program provides funds via an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, which can be used at grocery stores, farmers’ markets, and USDA-authorized retailers. This assistance allows you to purchase essential food items like vegetables, dairy, grains, and meat at reduced costs, helping you maintain a healthy diet without straining your finances.
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To apply for SNAP benefits, you must meet income and resource guidelines, which can vary by state. If you are receiving Social Security or SSDI, you may still qualify for SNAP assistance depending on your overall household income.
4. Veterans Benefits
If you are a veteran, you may be able to combine your Social Security benefits with Veterans Disability Compensation (VA benefits). Many veterans receive partial VA disability compensation, but for some, this may not be enough to cover their living expenses. If that’s the case, it’s worth checking to see if you are eligible for additional benefits like SSI or Social Security.
Social Security benefits and VA benefits can be combined without reducing the amount you receive from either program. In some cases, you may even be eligible for more comprehensive support, such as additional assistance for dependents or healthcare services through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). It’s important to contact the VA or Social Security Administration to find out what benefits you are eligible for, as these programs often overlap.
5. State-Specific Programs
In addition to federal programs, many states offer benefits that can be combined with Social Security to provide further assistance. For example, some states allow individuals to receive Social Security and unemployment benefits simultaneously, which can be particularly useful if you’re struggling to make ends meet due to job loss or a low-paying job.
6. Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
For individuals and families experiencing severe financial hardship, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) is a federal program that provides cash assistance to eligible low-income individuals. If you are receiving Social Security benefits and meet the income requirements, you may also qualify for TANF. This assistance can help cover a range of needs, including food, utilities, and other essential expenses.
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The TANF program is managed at the state level, so eligibility requirements and benefit amounts vary by state. It’s a good idea to contact your local TANF office to inquire about your eligibility and how to apply for this benefit if you think you qualify.
7. Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
Another valuable program is the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program, which provides nutrition assistance for pregnant women, new mothers, and young children under the age of five. If you are receiving Social Security or SSDI and have a qualifying child, you may be eligible for WIC. This program helps ensure that you and your children have access to essential nutrients like fruits, vegetables, milk, and other staples.
Eligibility for WIC depends on income and household size, and it can be a great supplement if you are already receiving Social Security benefits, particularly if you have young children.
Conclusion
Receiving Social Security benefits can provide essential financial support, but if you find that your payments are too low to cover all of your living expenses, there are many other programs that can help supplement your income. Programs like SSI, spousal benefits, SNAP, VA benefits, TANF, WIC, and others can provide crucial support to ensure that you have the resources you need to live comfortably.
If you are receiving Social Security or SSDI, it’s important to explore all the available benefits to maximize your financial assistance and improve your quality of life.
Always check with the Social Security Administration, local agencies, and other government programs to ensure you’re receiving the benefits you’re entitled to.
