A significant overhaul of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is on the horizon. Set to take effect on September 30, 2024, this change is expected to improve the application process and increase the number of people eligible for benefits.
SSI, a federal program that supports low-income individuals who are aged 65 or older, blind, or disabled, currently affects around 7.4 million Americans. However, with the upcoming revisions, beneficiaries can expect crucial updates that could significantly enhance the support they receive.
What is Changing?
The Elimination of In-Kind Support and Maintenance (ISM)
One of the most important updates involves In-Kind Support and Maintenance (ISM). Previously, food and housing assistance provided by family or friends was considered unearned income, which could reduce SSI benefits. This rule has been widely criticized for discouraging families from helping loved ones.
Beginning September 30, food benefits will no longer be counted as income, which means that individuals receiving help through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or other food assistance will not see a reduction in their SSI benefits.
Impact on SSI Recipients
This change aims to ease the eligibility process and prevent reductions in monthly payments due to non-cash assistance. As a result:
- More Americans may qualify for SSI benefits due to a higher threshold for unearned income.
- Current beneficiaries could see an increase in their payments. The average monthly payment of $943 for individuals and $1,415 for couples may rise as more unearned income is excluded.
The SSA has clarified that rental assistance will also not impact SSI benefits, meaning support for housing will no longer reduce payments, increasing access to those in need.
SSI Payment Schedule
The SSA follows a clear payment schedule for SSI benefits, ensuring beneficiaries receive payments consistently. Below is a table outlining the key dates for SSI payments for the remainder of 2024:
| Month | SSI Payment Date | Advance Payment |
|---|---|---|
| August | August 1 | August 29 (for September) |
| September | N/A | N/A |
| October | October 1 | October 31 (for November) |
| November | N/A | N/A |
| December | December 1 | December 31 (for January) |
Beneficiaries must be aware that payments may vary based on income, resources, and the chosen filing category. Individuals can expect payments ranging from $698 to a maximum of $943, depending on their situation.
Couples, on the other hand, may receive up to $1,415, while recipients meeting the Essential Person (EP) criterion could receive an additional $472 per month.
The Role of Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA)
The Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) has a direct impact on SSI payments. In 2024, COLA was set at 3.2%, reflecting rising inflation and living costs.
While this year’s COLA provided a modest increase, predictions for 2025 estimate a COLA between 2.63% and 3.25%, which would result in a smaller increase compared to previous years.
How to Prepare for the Changes
Beneficiaries should monitor their benefits closely as these changes unfold. Understanding the new rules will help maximize potential increases and ensure eligibility. Here’s what to do:
- Stay Informed: Keep track of any updates from the Social Security Administration (SSA). As these changes become effective, beneficiaries should ensure their records are accurate and up-to-date.
- Review Benefits: Check your current payment amounts and confirm if additional unearned income, like food assistance, is still being counted.
- File Correctly: If you’re applying for SSI after September 30, ensure you understand the revised eligibility criteria to avoid delays or errors in processing your benefits.
Conclusion
The upcoming changes to SSI benefits mark a significant shift in how the program supports low-income seniors and individuals with disabilities. By removing food assistance from the eligibility calculations and expanding rental assistance, the Social Security Administration aims to provide more comprehensive support for the millions of Americans who rely on SSI.
Beneficiaries should prepare for these changes to ensure they receive the maximum benefits they are entitled to. Staying informed and adjusting to the new rules will help individuals navigate this transition smoothly.
References
- Social Security Report, 2024. “Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Rule Changes Explained.”
- Town of Norway, 2024. “Big SSI Changes Coming From September 30, 2024 – Who Will Be Affected?”
- SSA Blog, 2024. “Social Security to Expand Access to SSI Program by Updating Definition of a Public Assistance Household.”
