the Social Security Administration will introduce new rules impacting about 7 million Americans receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) effect Starting September 30, 2024. These updates are expected to benefit seniors, disabled individuals, and those receiving SNAP food benefits, according to the Social Security Administration.
Note: They’ll take effect on September 30.
THREE TWEAKS
According to The Sun, New rules will redefine what households can get SSI.
#1. Expanded Eligibility for SSI
The new rules will expand the definition of a public assistance household. This change will allow SSI benefits for individuals living in households where not all members qualify for public assistance, ensuring more people can access critical support.
#2. Adjustments to Unearned Income Calculations
The administration will also remove food benefits from its calculations of unearned income. By excluding food benefits, recipients may qualify for increased SSI payments, providing additional financial relief to low-income families.
#3. Rent Subsidy Program Expansion
Some SSI recipients in seven states will benefit from an expanded rent subsidy program. This effort aims to further assist those struggling with housing costs.
Early Payments and COLA Increase
Due to a calendar shift, Social Security payments will be sent out early in September. Additionally, seniors may see a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) increase for 2025 to help offset inflation.
These changes are part of the Social Security Administration’s commitment to making systemic improvements for vulnerable populations, led by Commissioner Martin O’Malley.
“I’m committed to making systemic changes to help people access the critical benefits they need, including SSI,” said Martin O’Malley, Commissioner of Social Security.
This regulation update is one of several that Social Security is publishing to improve the SSI program. The agency recently announced it will exclude the value of food from SSI benefit calculations. The agency also recently announced it will expand its rental subsidy exception, currently only in place for SSI applicants and recipients residing in seven States, as a nationwide policy.
Social Security continuously examines programmatic policy and makes regulatory and sub-regulatory changes as appropriate.
For more information on the SSI program, including who is eligible and how to apply, visit Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
To read the final rule, visit Federal Register: Expand the Definition of a Public Assistance Household.
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