Social Security has recently approved a new SSI rule to remove food assistance reductions. This means that even if you receive food assistance from a relative, friend, or the local community, this will not be taken into account.
Before this rule, it used to be counted and it reduced the amount of SSI payments by about one-third. That is quite a lot of money because these payments are for low-income Americans who have a low Social Security or nothing at all.
SOCIAL SECURITY WILL EXPAND SSI RENTAL SUBSIDY POLICY
The Administration claims that this has been the second rule to help Americans on SSI benefits. So, it will be beneficial whether you apply for Supplemental Security Income or you are already receiving it.
The main goal is to expand the rental subsidy policy all over the United States. What is more, they want to make it easier by simplifying it. Once it comes into effect, it will contribute to improving SSI’s equality.
Apart from that, the Social Security Administration will have to spend less time and resources on checking eligibility. For your information, SSI is for seniors aged 65 at least, blind people, or people with a disability who have a low income.
WHEN WILL THIS NEW SOCIAL SECURITY RULE BEGIN?
Unfortunately, this rule will not come into effect until September 30, 2024. Therefore, there are a few months left to take advantage of it. So far, only 7 States are benefiting from this rental subsidy policy.
The States that have the rental subsidy policy are “Connecticut, Illinois, Indiana, New York, Texas, Vermont, and Wisconsin“. Thus, rental assistance, for example, renting at a reduced rate, was less likely to affect the payment amount or eligibility.
The best thing about this rental subsidy policy is the fact that SSI recipients can receive higher benefits. Since it may increase the amount of their monthly benefits or allow them to be eligible, more people will receive this money. Visit https://www.ssa.gov/news/press/releases/2024/#4-2024-1 for more details.
