The year 2024 promises significant financial relief for millions of Americans, particularly those receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), and Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits.
A “triple” benefit increase is expected in September 2024 due to various government adjustments, including the Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) and expansions in eligibility criteria.
This article will explore who qualifies for these benefits, how they will be distributed, and what changes recipients can expect.
What are the Triple SSI, SSDI and VA September Benefits?
The term “triple benefits” refers to an increase in payments across three federal assistance programs—SSI, SSDI, and VA benefits—set to take effect in September 2024. The major drivers of these increases are:
- COLA Adjustment: The Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) for 2024 is set at 3.2%, which aims to offset the effects of inflation. This will apply to both SSI and SSDI, and VA benefits will follow the same adjustment.
- SSI and SSDI Eligibility Expansion: The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) programs will undergo eligibility expansions starting in September 2024. New rule changes aim to make it easier for more individuals to qualify for these benefits, especially those with limited income or who fall under expanded household definitions.
Who Qualifies for These Benefits?
To qualify for the September 2024 triple benefits, individuals must meet specific eligibility criteria:
SSI Eligibility
- Be at least 65 years old, blind, or disabled.
- Have limited income and financial resources. The 2024 income limit is $2,000 for individuals and $3,000 for couples.
- Be a U.S. citizen or a qualifying legal resident.
SSDI Eligibility
- Must have a disability that prevents substantial gainful activity (SGA), with the 2024 SGA limit being $1,550 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,590 for blind individuals.
- Have earned enough work credits, typically requiring 40 work credits (equivalent to 10 years of work).
VA Benefits
- Veterans with service-connected disabilities will also see a 3.2% increase in their monthly payments.
- The same criteria for VA disability benefits apply, including disability rating and discharge status.
How Much Will Recipients Receive?
The actual benefit amounts will vary based on individual circumstances:
| Benefit Type | Maximum Monthly Amount (2024) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| SSI (Individual) | $943 | Up from $914 in 2023 |
| SSI (Couple) | $1,415 | Up from $1,371 in 2023 |
| SSDI (Maximum) | $3,822 | Up from $3,627 in 2023 |
| VA Disability | 3.2% increase | Follows the same COLA as Social Security benefits |
Key Changes for September 2024
Several changes in eligibility rules and payment calculations are taking place in September 2024 that will affect SSI, SSDI, and VA benefits:
- Expanded Eligibility: SSI eligibility is set to expand due to changes in the definition of households and removal of in-kind support and maintenance (ISM) calculations. This will allow more people to qualify, especially those in shared housing.
- COLA Adjustment: The COLA increase will automatically apply to all recipients of SSI, SSDI, and VA benefits. This 3.2% increase helps ensure that benefits keep pace with rising inflation.
Payment Dates for September 2024
The payments for these triple benefits will be made according to the following schedule:
| Benefit Type | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| SSI (for September) | August 30, 2024 |
| SSDI (before 1997) | September 3, 2024 |
| Birthdays 1st-10th | September 11, 2024 |
| Birthdays 11th-20th | September 18, 2024 |
| Birthdays 21st-31st | September 25, 2024 |
Conclusion
The triple September 2024 benefits increase offers significant financial relief for those relying on SSI, SSDI, and VA benefits. With the 3.2% COLA adjustment and expanded eligibility rules, recipients will see modest increases in their monthly payments.
It’s crucial to stay informed about the payment schedules and eligibility changes to ensure timely receipt of these benefits.
FAQs
1. What is the triple benefit increase?
The triple benefit increase refers to the 3.2% COLA applied to SSI, SSDI, and VA benefits, as well as expanded eligibility for these programs.
2. Who is eligible for the 2024 increase?
Individuals receiving SSI, SSDI, or VA disability benefits who meet the necessary criteria, including income limitations and work history, are eligible.
3. When will the benefits be paid?
Payments for the September benefits will start on August 30, 2024, for SSI recipients and in early September for SSDI and VA beneficiaries.
4. How do I apply for these benefits?
Applications can be submitted through the official Social Security Administration (SSA) website, ww.ssa.gov. VA benefits are handled through the Department of Veterans Affairs.
5. Will the COLA increase cover inflation?
The 3.2% COLA is designed to offset inflation, but individual financial circumstances will determine how effective this increase is at covering living expenses.
References
- Collin College News – Triple September 2024 Benefits for SSI, SSDI & VA
- Atticus – The Social Security COLA: How SSDI and SSI Are Changing in 2024
- Social Security Report – Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Rule Changes Explained
- Honolulu DPP – 2024 SSI & SSDI Expansion Act
