New York, NY – The Social Security Administration has recently announced significant changes to the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program that will impact the benefits received by individuals with disabilities and seniors. The modifications are aimed at increasing support for those in need.
Under the SSI program, individuals aged 65 and above, as well as adults and children with disabilities or blindness who have limited income and resources, receive monthly payments. The changes announced by the Social Security Administration will affect the maximum payment amounts for eligible individuals.
Starting in 2024, the monthly maximum SSI payments will be $943 for an eligible individual, $1,415 for an eligible individual with an eligible spouse, and $472 for an essential person. However, these amounts could be subject to adjustments based on certain considerations.
One significant change introduced by the new rule, known as “Omitting Food from In-Kind Support and Maintenance (ISM) Calculations,” is that informal food assistance received by applicants or beneficiaries from friends, family, and community support networks will no longer impact their SSI eligibility or benefits. This adjustment aims to provide more stability and support to SSI recipients.
Previously, food and shelter received by individuals were considered unearned income under ISM calculations, potentially affecting their benefit eligibility or payment amounts. With the new regulation, gifted meals will no longer have a negative impact on SSI benefits, providing recipients with added financial security.
In addition to increasing the amount of support beneficiaries receive, the new guideline also streamlines the reporting process by reducing the information applicants and recipients need to provide. They will no longer be required to report any food assistance received from family and friends, simplifying the process for those in need.
These changes are set to take effect on September 30, 2024, with the Social Security Administration expressing its commitment to making further improvements to the Supplemental Security Income program. The updates aim to ensure that individuals with disabilities and seniors receive the necessary support and assistance to meet their needs effectively.