Washington D.C., U.S. – The Social Security Administration recently announced a significant change in the calculations used to determine eligibility for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments. As of September 30, food will no longer be included in these calculations, marking a shift in policy aimed at easing access to benefits for older adults and disabled individuals.
Under the previous rule, in-kind support and maintenance items, such as informal food assistance from friends, family, and community networks, were considered unearned income that could impact eligibility or reduce payment amounts. The new final rule removes these items from the calculations, potentially benefiting SSI beneficiaries.
To qualify for SSI payments, individuals must be over 65 years old, have a disability or blindness, and meet income requirements. These payments are intended to cover essential needs like rent, food, clothing, and medicine. The elimination of food from the calculations is expected to streamline the process and reduce variability in payment amounts from month to month.
Commissioner of Social Security, Martin O’Malley, emphasized the importance of simplifying policies to alleviate burdens on both the public and agency staff. By removing barriers to accessing payments, the agency aims to promote equity and improve the overall user experience for applicants and recipients.
Additionally, the Social Security Administration noted that the new policy will lead to administrative savings by reducing the time spent managing food ISM. The clearer guidelines are expected to benefit both applicants and agency employees, facilitating a more straightforward and efficient process for all involved parties.
As part of a broader effort to enhance the accessibility and effectiveness of SSI payments, the agency plans to announce further updates in the near future. These changes reflect a commitment to ensuring that crucial benefits reach those who need them most, while also streamlining administrative processes for better overall efficiency.