How Tying the Knot Can Affect Your SSI Benefits

Marriage is a joyous occasion, but for individuals receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI), it can also bring significant changes to their financial situation. SSI is a needs-based program, meaning that eligibility and benefit amounts depend on an individual’s income and resources. When SSI recipients get married, the Social Security Administration (SSA) considers the financial situation of both spouses, which can lead to changes in benefits. Our Arkansas & Nationwide SSI Attorneys at American Disability Action Group can help our clients to avoid unexpected reductions or terminations of their benefits.

Income and Resource Limits

One of the primary ways marriage affects SSI benefits is through the SSA’s income and resource limits. When an SSI recipient marries, the SSA considers both spouses’ income and resources in determining eligibility and benefit amounts. This process, known as “deeming,” can significantly impact the recipient’s benefits.

In Arkansas, for example, if an SSI recipient marries someone with a stable income, that income may be deemed available to the SSI recipient, potentially reducing or eliminating their benefits. The SSA uses a portion of the spouse’s income to determine if the couple’s combined income exceeds the federal benefit rate (FBR) for SSI. As of 2024, the FBR for an individual is $914 per month, while for a couple, it is $1,371 per month. This lower amount for couples reflects the assumption that two people living together can share expenses and thus do not need as much individual income.

In Oklahoma, SSI recipients should be aware that if they marry another SSI recipient, the SSA will consider them an “eligible couple” and apply the couple’s FBR. This could lead to a reduction in the combined benefits the couple receives compared to the sum of their individual benefits before marriage. For instance, two individuals receiving $914 each would see their combined benefits reduced to $1,371 as a married couple, representing a significant decrease in total monthly income.

Impact on Resources

Marriage can also affect SSI benefits through changes in the couple’s total resources. SSI has strict resource limits: $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple. In Mississippi, if an SSI recipient marries someone with assets, such as savings accounts or property, that exceed these limits, the recipient may lose their SSI eligibility. This rule applies even if the recipient’s personal resources remain within the individual limit. The SSA considers all assets jointly owned or available to the couple when determining eligibility.

Changes in Living Arrangements

In Tennessee, changes in living arrangements due to marriage can also affect SSI benefits. If an SSI recipient moves into their spouse’s home, the SSA may adjust their benefits based on the new living situation. The SSA might consider whether the recipient is paying their fair share of household expenses. If the recipient is not paying an equal share, their SSI benefits could be reduced because the SSA assumes the recipient is receiving in-kind support and maintenance (ISM) from the spouse.

Additional Considerations for SSI Recipients in Texas and Louisiana

For SSI recipients in Texas and Louisiana, it’s essential to report any changes in marital status to the SSA promptly. Failure to report such changes can lead to overpayments, which the recipient would be required to repay. Additionally, not reporting changes could result in penalties or even the termination of benefits. Staying informed about these rules and understanding how marriage affects SSI can help recipients avoid financial pitfalls.

Seek Legal Assistance Today

Marriage can have a substantial impact on SSI benefits due to income and resource limits and changes in living arrangements. SSI recipients in Arkansas, Oklahoma, Mississippi, Tennessee, Texas, and Louisiana must carefully consider these factors when planning to marry. At the American Disability Action Group, we are here to help you navigate these changes and protect your benefits. Contact us today for personalized advice and assistance with your SSI concerns, ensuring you understand how marriage may affect your financial future.

Source:

ssa.gov/ssi/text-benefits-ussi.htm#:~:text=Effective%20January%201%2C%202024%20the,and%20%241%2C415%20for%20a%20couple.