Changes to SSI Benefits in 2023

SSA Proposes Change to SSI Benefits: Excluding Food from Calculations

The Social Security Administration (SSA) recently proposed a change to the way Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits are calculated. Specifically, the SSA is proposing to exclude food from the calculations used to determine the amount of SSI benefits a person will receive.

In this blog post, we will discuss the proposed change and what it could mean for those who are receiving SSI benefits.

What is SSI?

SSI is a federal program that provides financial assistance to individuals with low income and limited resources who are elderly, blind or disabled. The amount of SSI benefits a person receives is based on their income and assets. 

Currently, the SSA includes the value of food in their calculation of income when determining SSI benefit amounts. This means that if a person receives free food or meals from a shelter, food bank or other source, the value of that food is counted as income and can reduce their SSI benefits.

What is the SSA’s Proposed Change to SSI Benefits?

The proposed change would exclude the value of food from the calculation of income for SSI beneficiaries. This means that the value of food or meals received would not be counted as income and would not reduce a person’s SSI benefits. This change would help SSI recipients as it would eliminate a penalty for those who may rely on free or reduced-cost meals.

Excluding food from SSI calculations is important because it allows individuals with low income and limited resources to receive the assistance they need to meet their basic nutritional needs. This can make a significant difference in the lives of those who struggle to make ends meet and may help to reduce food insecurity and hunger.

Does this Include SNAP Benefits?

Food stamps, also known as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, do not count as income for the purposes of determining eligibility for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) does not consider SNAP benefits as income when calculating the amount of SSI benefits a person is eligible to receive. Therefore, if you receive SSI benefits, any SNAP benefits you receive will not affect the amount of SSI benefits you are eligible to receive.

It is important to note that the proposed change is not yet final. 

Getting Help with Disability Benefits

If you need to apply for SSD or SSI benefits, or have been denied disability benefits, contact the attorneys at Berger and Green for a free evaluation of your claim. We can help you get the benefits you deserve.