The Social Security Administration is preparing to implement significant changes that will impact an important part of its beneficiaries, particularly those who receive Supplemental Security Income. Approximately 7 million Americans get benefits from the SSI program, even though the majority of Social Security claimants are retired workers.
New regulations specifically aimed at this group will be introduced by the SSA starting in September 2024, which may expand the number of eligible individuals while improving benefits for existing recipients.
Everything Changes Again in Social Security
Benefits from SSA SSI payments provide vital financial support to a number of people, such as adults 65 years of age and above, persons with disabilities or blindness, and children. Those with low incomes may additionally take advantage of these advantages. A person’s monthly income cannot be more than $1,971 in order to qualify.
A single beneficiary receives an average monthly payout of $943, whilst couples filing jointly get an average monthly payment of $1,415 each month. Many SSI participants may benefit from increased access and benefits as a result of the coming adjustments to the eligibility requirements.
3 New Social Security Changes Announced
Three new regulations will be put into effect by the SSA on September 30, 2024, with the goal of increasing the availability and reach of SSI benefits for those who are in need. These changes include the redefinition of a “public assistance household,” changes to how food assistance is calculated, and a nationwide expansion of the rent subsidy policy.
| Organization | Social Security Administration |
| Program | New Social Security Changes |
| Country | USA |
| Average Amount | $943 for individuals; $1415 for couples |
| Payment Date | Monthly, starting September 2024 |
| Change in | Public Assistance, Food Assistance, Rent Subsidy |
| Category | Government Aid |
| Official Website | https://www.ssa.gov/ |
It is expected that these improvements will have significant effects on both present and future SSI recipients, improving access to and maintenance of these essential benefits for people and families.
Public Assistance Household Redefined
- The most important change is the new definition of a “public assistance household.”
- To be eligible for SSI payments, each member of the household must currently receive government support.
- However, the new rule requires only one SSI recipient in the household, along with at least one other household member who receives a kind of government support tied to resource verification.
- In addition, the household’s public assistance package will now include the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.
- It is expected that this change would result in an increase in payments for approximately 277,000 current SSI recipients and a creation of 109,000 new SSI eligibility opportunities.
Changes to Food Assistance Calculations
- The way in which the Social Security Administration determines SSI eligibility in relation to in-kind support and maintenance (ISM) in the form of food is another significant change.
- In the past, receiving food or housing help was considered as unearned income, which therefore decreased an individual’s eligibility for SSI payments.
- This policy often placed an unnecessary burden on those in need of support.
- Recipients will not have to be concerned about losing their SSI payments if they accept food help from friends and family under the new regulations.
- This modification offers significant help to beneficiaries by solving one of the toughest requirements for eligibility.
Expansion of Rent Subsidy Policy
- The SSA is planning to provide subsidies for rent across the country.
- Before, those who received rental support or reduced rent were only free from penalties if they lived in certain states.
- The new policy claims that rental assistance across the nation will not have a negative impact on SSI eligibility or monthly payments.
- The change makes sure SSI recipients receive constant support, no matter where they live.
- The expansion aims to keep SSI users who are at risk financially stable.
FAQs
What are the main changes to SSI starting September 2024?
The changes include a new definition for “public assistance households,” updated rules for food assistance, and expanded rent subsidies nationwide.
When do these changes take effect?
The new regulations will go into effect on September 30, 2024.
Who will be affected by these changes?
These changes will impact about 7 million SSI recipients, including seniors, people with disabilities, and low-income families.