Student Earned Income Exclusion (SEIE)
SSI Work Incentive Only
The Student Earned Income Exclusion (SEIE) helps students keep more of their SSI check while they gain work experience. The SEIE is available to SSI recipients who meet the following requirements:
- Under age 22
- Regularly attending school (some restrictions apply)
- Receiving SSI payments
- Working
An SSI recipient who meets these requirements can earn up to $1,640 per month in wages (2010) before there is any reduction to their SSI check. There is a maximum exclusion of $6,600 per year (2010).
The Student Earned Income Exclusion (SEIE) is the ideal work incentive for students who work while in school and want to increase work hours during the summer or between semesters.
Example:
Andrea is a 20 year old college student. She receives $780 per month at her job in the book store and is an SSI recipient.
| $780 | Wages |
| -$780 | Student Earned Income Exclusion |
| $0 | Countable Income for SSI |
| $674 | SSI Federal Benefit Rate (FBR) |
| - $0 | Countable Income |
| $674 | SSI Payment using the SEIE |
Without using the SEIE, Andrea's SSI payment would be reduced to $326.50 because of her earnings. Andrea will be able to exclude $780 per month through the SEIE for over 8 months before she reaches the maximum annual exclusion ($6,600 in 2010).
If you would like more information about the Student Earned Income Exclusion, contact the MN Work Incentives Connection.
