The Social Security Administration (SSA) has rolled out significant changes to the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program, set to take effect in September 2024. These changes will affect millions of beneficiaries, bringing much-needed reforms aimed at simplifying the system and expanding eligibility.
Below, we’ll dive into the key updates, eligibility criteria, and what you need to know as these changes roll out.
Key Changes Effective September 2024
1. Redefinition of Household Eligibility
One of the major updates is the expansion of the definition of a “public assistance household.” Previously, every household member had to receive public assistance to qualify for Social Security Income.
Under the new rule, only one member of the household needs to receive SSI benefits, and others only need to receive means-tested public benefits like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
This change is expected to make SSI more accessible to low-income households, especially those with mixed financial situations.
2. Food Assistance No Longer Considered as Income
Another significant reform is the elimination of food assistance from the eligibility calculations for SSI. Historically, in-kind support and maintenance (ISM) — including food aid — was considered income, which could reduce SSI benefits.
This rule has been modified, so food relief will no longer count against your benefit eligibility, allowing more people to qualify without facing reductions.
This update also simplifies the SSI application process by removing the burden of tracking in-kind support, which has been seen as an administrative hassle.
3. Expansion of Rental Subsidy Policy
The Social Security Administration has expanded the rental subsidy policy nationwide. Previously, in certain states like New York and Texas, rental subsidies or discounted rent arrangements were counted as income, potentially reducing SSI payments.
With the new rule, this policy is being expanded federally, ensuring that more individuals can benefit from SSI without having their payments reduced due to subsidized housing.
SSI Payment Structure for 2024
| Category | 2024 Maximum Payment |
|---|---|
| Individual | $943 per month |
| Couple | $1,415 per month |
| Significant Others | $472 per month |
Eligibility Criteria for SSI
To be eligible for SSI in 2024, applicants must meet strict income and resource limits:
- Monthly income: Applicants must earn less than $1,971 per month.
- Resource limits: Individuals must have less than $2,000 in resources, and couples less than $3,000. This includes assets like cash, bank accounts, and real estate.
Impacts of These Changes
These new rules are poised to positively impact many low-income seniors, disabled individuals, and their families. By excluding food aid and rent subsidies from the income calculation, more people will be eligible for Social Security income payments, and those already on the program will see fewer reductions in their monthly checks.
These updates are expected to particularly benefit those who have historically been disqualified or received reduced payments due to the complexity of the ISM rules.
Additionally, these changes will help simplify the application process, reducing administrative burdens on the Social Security and applicants alike.
Conclusion
Social Security new changes to SSI set to take effect in September 2024 represent a significant shift towards simplifying eligibility and expanding the program’s reach.
By removing the ISM rule, redefining household qualifications, and expanding rental subsidies, the SSI program becomes more accessible to millions of Americans who rely on it for support.
These reforms are especially crucial given the rising cost of living and the complexities that have previously hindered low-income individuals from receiving their full benefits. This is just the first step in what is expected to be a broader reform of the SSI program
FAQs
1. What is the main change to SSI eligibility starting in September?
The SSA is expanding the definition of “public assistance households” and removing food aid from income calculations, making it easier for more people to qualify for SSI without reductions in their benefits.
2. How will food assistance affect my SSI benefits after the new rule?
Starting in September 2024, food assistance will no longer be counted as income, meaning it will not reduce your monthly SSI payments.
3. What is the new monthly SSI payment limit for individuals and couples?
For 2024, individuals can receive a maximum of $943 per month, while couples can receive up to $1,415
4. Will subsidized rent affect my SSI payments?
No. Under the new rule, subsidized rent or discounted housing will no longer reduce your SSI payments nationwide.
5. How does this rule change help simplify the SSI process?
The removal of in-kind support (like food assistance) from income calculations simplifies both the eligibility process and the ongoing administration of SSI payments
References
- Lagrada Online, Everything Changes Again in Social Security Starting in September – List of New Changes Announced.
- AARP, Social Security Proposing SSI Income Rule Change.
- On the Commons, Millions to Benefit from New SSI Law Effective September 30.
- Social Security Report, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Rule Changes Explained.
