A number of regulations for Social Security benefits for the disabled have not been revised since 1972. Rules that do not permit recipients to have more than $2,000 in assets at any time and a penalty for getting married are severe and outdated.
The Supplemental Social Security Restoration Act now in the U.S. House of Representatives would raise the SSI’s asset limit to $10,000 for an individual and $20,000 for couples, according to the article “Lawmakers Look To Update SSI Program” from Disability Scoop.
Right now, in order to retain benefits, SSI recipients generally can have no more than $2,000 to their name at any given time. However, Congress is looking to significantly increase that ceiling, with a bill introduced this month that would increase SSI’s asset limit to $10,000 for an individual and $20,000 for couples.
The Supplemental Security Income Restoration Act would also increase the amount of disregarded income that beneficiaries can collect monthly.
The bill would also repeal penalties for marrying or receiving financial, food, and housing assistance from family members.
Supporters of the Act say it’s time to update Social Security’s SSI program, which has remained largely static since 1972.
“This issue is one I have heard about directly from autism advocates and families in our district, particularly parents preparing for children with disabilities to transition into adulthood,” said Rep. Elissa Slotkin, D-Mich., who introduced the measure along with Rep. Raúl Grijalva, D-Ariz.
This is a common-sense adjustment that could have a huge impact on individuals and families with disabilities.
The time has come for the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program to be brought up to date.
Reference: Disability Scoop (September 23, 2019) “Lawmakers Look To Update SSI Program”