## Can People on SSI Invest in Stocks?
Yes, people on Supplemental Security Income (SSI) can invest in stocks. However, there are some important things to keep in mind before doing so.
### SSI Income Limits
SSI is a government program that provides monthly payments to low-income individuals who are blind, disabled, or over the age of 65. The amount of SSI you receive is based on your income and resources.
**Income**
Your SSI income includes any money you receive from Social Security, wages, or other sources. However, certain types of income are not counted against your SSI limit, such as:
* Social Security benefits based on your own work record
* Veterans benefits
* Housing assistance
* Food stamps
**Resources**
Your SSI resources include any assets you own, such as cash, bank accounts, stocks, and real estate. The Social Security Administration (SSA) limits the amount of resources you can have and still receive SSI. In 2023, the resource limit is $2,000 for individuals and $3,000 for couples.
### Investing in Stocks with SSI
If you are on SSI and you want to invest in stocks, there are a few things you should do:
1. **Talk to a financial advisor.** A financial advisor can help you create an investment plan that meets your individual needs and goals.
2. **Consider your risk tolerance.** Stocks can be a volatile investment, so it is important to consider your risk tolerance before investing. If you are not comfortable with the potential for losses, you may want to consider other investment options, such as bonds or mutual funds.
3. **Diversify your investments.** Don’t put all of your eggs in one basket. Diversify your investments by investing in a variety of stocks and other assets. This will help to reduce your overall risk.
4. **Rebalance your portfolio regularly.** As your investments grow, you may need to rebalance your portfolio to ensure that it still meets your risk tolerance and investment goals.
### SSI and the Stock Market
The stock market can be a great way to grow your wealth, but it is important to remember that it is also a volatile market. Stock prices can go up and down, and you could lose money. If you are on SSI and you are considering investing in stocks, it is important to do your research and to talk to a financial advisor.
### Resources for People on SSI
If you are on SSI and you are interested in learning more about investing, there are a number of resources available to you.
* **The Social Security Administration (SSA)** offers a variety of publications and online resources about SSI and investing.
* **The National Council on Disability (NCD)** offers a fact sheet on investing for people with disabilities.
* **The American Council of the Blind (ACB)** offers a variety of resources on financial planning for people with visual impairments.
### Conclusion
Investing in stocks can be a great way to grow your wealth, but it is important to do your research and to talk to a financial advisor before getting started. If you are on SSI, there are a few things you should keep in mind before investing in stocks, but it is possible to do so successfully.