Can you rent an apartment if SSI is your only income?

A disabled person whose only income is SSI may use that income for any expenses, including rent, states Nolo. The Social Security Administration doesn't place restrictions on how SSI is spent, but it may reduce the benefit amount in some circumstances, according to its website.

The Social Security Administration may reduce SSI benefits if the recipient lives alone but another person is paying some or all of his living expenses, if he shares a home and doesn't pay his fair share, or if he is in a nursing home, a hospital or prison, explains its website. SSI recipients may meet the income requirements for housing assistance such as Section 8, reports Nolo.