The Social Security Administration (SSA) has implemented several modifications to its Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program, aiming to broaden eligibility and enhance benefits for current recipients. SSI offers monthly payments to individuals with disabilities, blindness, or those aged 65 and older who have limited income or assets.
Commissioner of Social Security Martin O’Malley stated, “These changes will help more people access crucial SSI benefits. By simplifying and expanding our policies, we are making SSI smarter, removing barriers to accessing payments, and reducing the burden on both the public and agency staff.”
Here’s an overview of the significant changes:
Elimination of Food Impact on SSI Payments
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Previously, recipients of free food from friends or family faced reductions in their SSI benefits. Under the new guidelines, food will no longer be considered when determining SSI payments. This adjustment could potentially increase monthly payments by approximately $131 for over 90,000 individuals.
Expansion of Rental Assistance Rules
Previously, only individuals receiving rental assistance in seven states could qualify for SSI without it affecting their benefits. The new regulations extend this exception nationwide, allowing more individuals who pay rent to qualify for SSI or receive larger payments. This change could raise monthly benefits by around $132 for about 41,000 people.
Simplification of Household Rules
The definition of “public assistance households” has been broadened. Now, SNAP (food stamp) benefits are included in the public assistance criteria. Additionally, it is no longer required for every member of a household to receive public aid for the household to qualify as a public assistance household. These adjustments could increase benefits for approximately 277,000 individuals and simplify the qualification process for SSI.
These updates are designed to alleviate the burden on those applying for or receiving SSI, making it easier for them to access the necessary funds for essential living expenses, including rent, food, and medication.
Source: Newsbreak