The Social Security Administration recently announced a new proposal representing a shift in how SSI recipients who are given meals or groceries are treated, significantly making their lives easier. The proposal is that monthly benefits will no longer be reduced in many circumstances for those receiving help from others in the form of food.
Many Americans who are disabled receive Supplemental Security Income. However, there are stringent requirements that have remained unchanged for decades. SSI recipients must fill out forms providing specific information on others buying their food or helping pay rent.
Hampering help
According to advocates, the rule discourages friends and family members from helping loved ones with disabilities because it may decrease the monthly cash benefit. Approximately ten percent of recipients saw reductions at the start of 2022, based on data from the Social Security Administration (SSA).
SSI recipients must report any help received from others. The maximum benefit is $914. Should someone else purchase food or help with rent, the monthly payment can be reduced. Should the proposal pass some help with food would no longer reduce the monthly benefit while help with rent would still lead to a reduction.
Securing Social Security Administration benefits is a highly bureaucratic process that doesn’t change once applicants are approved. Numerous complexities may require the help of an attorney with contemporary knowledge and comprehensive experience.
https://www.huffpost.com/entry/ssi-in-kind-support-maintenance_n_63ebf926e4b022eb3e32f2d6
