The Social Security Administration has announced changes to the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program that will be implemented in the fall. These changes will expand the definition of a public assistance household, allowing more people to qualify for benefits. This will also result in increased payment amounts for some SSI recipients and reduce reporting burdens for those living in public assistance homes. The goal of these adjustments is to make it easier for people to access the critical benefits they need, including SSI. The changes will also include updates to the maximum SSI amount recipients can receive.
Whether or not your SSI payments will increase this year will depend on your specific situation. The administration will assume that recipients living in a public assistance household do not receive money from other household members. This change will enable more people to qualify for SSI and potentially receive a higher monthly payment. The exact amount of the increase is uncertain at this time, and it will vary depending on each individual’s circumstances. Some recipients may see an increase in their payments, while others may not.
In addition to expanding the definition of a public assistance household, the final rule will also include households receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits. Not all household members will be required to receive benefits to qualify under the new rule. Previously, all household members had to receive public assistance for an SSI beneficiary to qualify. Other changes under the rule include no longer including food in In-Kind Support and Maintenance calculations, as well as expanding the SSI rental subsidy policy nationwide. This expansion will make it less likely for rental assistance to affect a person’s SSI eligibility or payment amount.
The implementation of the final rule is set to begin on September 30, 2024, with the potential for payment increases to start in October. Eligibility for SSI benefits includes being at least age 65, visually impaired or disabled, having limited income and resources, being a US citizen or national, and living in one of the specified locations. Certain students temporarily abroad and children of military parents assigned to permanent duty outside the US may also be eligible for SSI. It is important to understand the criteria for qualifying for SSI benefits and to stay informed about any changes that may impact your payments.
