The Social Security Administration (SSA) has recently implemented systemic changes to make essential Social Security benefits more accessible to certain households across the country. An estimated 7.5 million Americans who demonstrate financial need currently receive assistance through Supplemental Security Income (SSI). These benefits are a lifeline for elderly, blind, disabled individuals, or those with children, but the strict resource limits and regulations often make it difficult to qualify or maintain full benefits.
The good news is that the SSA has introduced several new regulations to increase accessibility and remove barriers to receiving assistance. According to Martin O’Malley, Commissioner of Social Security, the federal agency is dedicated to simplifying policies and creating programs to ensure that the most vulnerable Americans can access the benefits they need to avoid poverty.
Resources
In 2024, the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) pays up to $943 per person or $1,415 per couple per month. Additionally, up to $472 can be awarded to family caregivers who look after SSI beneficiaries in their homes. However, recipients must have less than $2,000 in resources and earn less than $1,971 per month from their jobs. Couples are allowed up to $3,000 in resources and $2,915 in earned income.
Social Security beneficiaries must monitor and report their income to avoid having their benefits canceled or reduced. This adds an administrative burden on both the SSA and recipients. Moreover, gifts of free food from relatives, help from other household members, and subsidized rent can affect how benefits are counted in determining income, which complicates the process for many potential beneficiaries.
Changes
The SSA has introduced three final rules to streamline and increase benefit eligibility:
Food Gifts: Starting in September, food gifts will no longer be included in the calculation of in-kind support and maintenance (ISM) for SSI recipients. This change ensures that the 9% of SSI recipients whose payments are reduced due to food gifts will not experience fluctuating payments.
Household Definition: A new rule expands the definition of a public assistance household to include SNAP benefits. Previously, assistance from other household members could count as income and affect benefits. Under the new rules, only one other household member needs to receive assistance for the household to be considered for benefits.
Rental Subsidy: A rule already in place in seven states, which reduces the impact of rental assistance on eligibility for benefits, has been expanded. This change went into effect in September and is expected to reduce the likelihood that rental assistance will negatively affect eligibility for benefits.
Conclusion
The SSA’s new regulations are a positive step toward expanding access to essential Social Security benefits. These changes aim to reduce administrative burdens, simplify policies, and ensure that more Americans can receive the support they need. As these new rules take effect, it is important for recipients and potential beneficiaries to stay informed about how these changes may impact their eligibility and benefits.
FAQs
How much does SSI pay per person in 2024?
Up to $943 per person per month.
What is the resource limit for SSI recipients?
Individuals: $2,000, Couples: $3,000.
Do food gifts affect SSI benefits?
No, as of September, food gifts do not count as income.
What is included in the new household definition for benefits?
It now includes SNAP benefits.
When did the new rental subsidy rule take effect?
The expanded rule took effect in September 2024.