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Attorney Shawn Taylor

Limits on assets always a concern with SSI-related benefits

by | Mar 12, 2020 | Ssi Supplemental Security Income |

For West Virginia residents who are disabled and have limited resources and income, Supplemental Security Income can be an integral part of making ends meet. Given the relatively small amounts that people can earn and have as resources when they are getting SSI-related benefits, the limits can be a concern. Understanding the current limits is key when applying for SSI.

Several times, a member of the U.S. House of Representatives sought to raise the amount that SSI recipients could have while getting benefits but was rebuffed each time. The House member from Arizona brought the bill in 2013 with the goal of single applicants for SSI being allowed to have assets as much as $10,000 and married applicants having $15,000. At the time, the limits were $2,000 and $3,000, respectively. The bill did not go far, and the House member tried two more times with the same results. A recent fourth attempt remains in a House committee awaiting advancement.

The limits remain the same as they have been for years without any changes. More than 8 million people younger than 65 have SSI as a main source of income. The amount they receive per month remains quite low at just shy of $575 per month. In addition, the asset and income limitations are a strain financially for those getting SSI.

People who need SSI benefits should be cognizant of the income and resource limits and how it impacts their case. Since there does not appear to be a change on the horizon as to how much people can earn and maintain, having legal assistance to navigate the difficult terrain of SSI might be important. A law firm experienced in Supplemental Security Income may be able to help.