Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Medicaid, and Subsidized Housing Basics
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Benefits
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The SSI program provides a cash benefit to people with low income & resources who are:
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Age 65 or older
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Blind; or
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Have a disability
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SSI is a federal program, so the maximum amount received is the same no matter where you live. Currently, the maximum SSI amount anyone can receive is $794 until January 1, 2022.
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Once you qualify for SSI, the amount you receive depends on your income and resources (the things you own). If you pay rent, and are not over resourced and do not owe Social Security. you will most likely receive the maximum benefit.
IF YOU RECEIVE SSI: No cash disbursements are made to the beneficiary. If in an emergency your opt to receive a cash payment from the trust, you will be required to sign the Consequences of Cash Disbursement Form. This form Acknowledges the fact that receiving cash from your trust is in violation of social security rules and will result in a reduction of your cash benefit from Social Security.
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Social Security will NOT count the first $20 of income you receive in any month, but anything OVER $21 will reduce your SSI benefit dollar for dollar, AND you MUST report the income to Social Security. Failing to report the income may result in a benefit reduction or possible interruption.
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REMEMBER, Social Security and Medicaid can access your Trust information at any time, so work with us to ensure their rules are followed.
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HUD or Subsidized Housing and Your Trust
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IF YOU RECEIVE HUD OR SUBSIDIZED HOUSING: The trust cannot make payments for housing related expenses, including help with rent/mortgage or direct payments for utilities; gas, water and/or electric. The trust is also unable to pay condo fees or property tax if you receive HUD or Subsidized Housing.
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Medicaid Health Insurance Benefits
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IF YOU RECEIVE MEDICAID: The trust cannot supplant or pay for services covered by Medicaid, unless they have paid their portion. If there is a remaining balance, then the trust can pay what was not covered by Medicaid.