As the year draws to a close, millions of Social Security beneficiaries can look forward to upcoming changes announced by the Social Security Administration (SSA). Since its inception, the SSA has provided essential monthly benefits to help retirees, disabled individuals, and those in need afford basic living expenses, with the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program serving some of the country’s most disadvantaged. In response to rising inflation and shifting economic conditions, the SSA has introduced several important changes for SSI beneficiaries in 2024. Below is an overview of the updates aimed at improving access and financial stability for eligible recipients.
Key Changes Impacting SSI and Social Security Benefits in Late 2024
The SSA’s latest reforms are designed to reduce barriers to Social Security benefits for millions of Americans. An estimated 7.5 million people who qualify for SSI benefits—covering individuals who are blind, disabled, elderly, or financially vulnerable—stand to gain from these adjustments. In the words of SSA Commissioner Martin O’Malley, these updates will streamline the process for beneficiaries and offer financial relief to those most in need.
Here are three major policy changes that will impact SSI benefits for beneficiaries starting in late 2024.
1. Broader Definition of Public Assistance Households
The SSA has expanded the criteria for what constitutes a “public assistance household,” now recognizing the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) as a qualifying benefit. This adjustment allows SSI applicants in households that receive SNAP benefits to have their public assistance status recognized, which can impact eligibility and benefit levels. Previously, public assistance definitions were narrower, often disqualifying households from additional SSI benefits. Under the updated rule, only one member of a household needs to receive SNAP to classify the entire household as eligible, potentially increasing benefits for everyone living there.
2. Expanded Rental Subsidy Exemptions
Effective as of September, the SSA has expanded rental subsidy policies to prevent housing assistance from disqualifying applicants for SSI benefits. This rule, which began as a pilot in seven states, now applies nationwide and removes rental subsidies as a factor in determining eligibility. This update aims to prevent low-income individuals who rely on housing assistance from losing access to SSI benefits, as rent support is no longer considered “income” that could reduce or eliminate SSI payments. This change ensures that beneficiaries can maintain stable housing without sacrificing financial assistance.
3. Exclusion of Food Gifts from Unearned Income Calculations
Starting in September, food gifts are no longer counted as “in-kind support and maintenance” (ISM) for SSI beneficiaries. Previously, food gifts were categorized as unearned income, potentially reducing monthly SSI payments for the roughly 9% of beneficiaries receiving food support. Now, only housing support will be considered under ISM, allowing recipients to receive food gifts without experiencing fluctuations in their monthly SSI benefits. This change provides greater stability, ensuring beneficiaries are not penalized for receiving food assistance and that their payments remain consistent month-to-month.
Monthly Benefit Amounts for SSI Recipients in 2024
The SSA determines monthly benefit amounts for recipients based on various factors, including the applicant’s category at the time of filing. The SSA has already included a 3.4% Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for 2024 to help beneficiaries keep up with inflation. Here’s a breakdown of SSI benefits based on individual and couple filing statuses:
| SSI Benefit Category | Monthly Benefit Amount |
|---|---|
| Average Benefit | $698 |
| Individual Beneficiaries | $943 |
| Couples | $1,415 |
| Essential Persons* | $472 |
*An “Essential Person” is someone who lives with an SSI beneficiary and provides essential care and support.
These benefit amounts reflect the recent COLA increase, designed to help SSI recipients cope with rising costs.
Checking and Accessing SSI Benefits
Beneficiaries who do not receive their payments on the scheduled date are encouraged to wait three additional mailing days before reaching out to the SSA. Recipients can also access their My Social Security Account to view benefit payment details, review statements, and verify their financial information.
What is the new public assistance household definition, and how does it affect SSI benefits?
The SSA now considers SNAP participation when defining a “public assistance household.” This change means that if one household member receives SNAP benefits, the entire household may be eligible for increased SSI support.
Will rental subsidies affect my SSI eligibility in 2024?
No. Rental subsidies are no longer considered part of your income for SSI eligibility. This exemption allows beneficiaries to maintain or qualify for SSI benefits while receiving rental support.
How do food gifts impact SSI benefits under the new rules?
Food gifts no longer count as unearned income for SSI recipients, meaning food donations won’t reduce or impact monthly benefit amounts.
