The federal government recently released its 2020 Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Spousal Impoverishment guidelines.  The guidelines, which took effect on January 1, 2020, set the SSI Federal benefit rate at $783.00 for an individual and $1,175 for a couple.

SSI is a monthly cash benefit to blind, disabled or elderly individuals with low income and resources.  Subject to the exclusion of certain sources of income, the SSI monthly income cap is set at $2,349 for an individual.  In order to qualify for the SSI benefit, the applicant must have a disability or diseases severe enough such that the applicant cannot engage in substantial gainful activity.  An applicant who is earning more than a set monthly amount of income is considered to be engaging in substantial gainful activity.  In 2020, the substantial gainful activity monthly limit for an elderly or disabled individual who is not blind, is $1,260 in earned income.

Questions? Let Jane know.

Jane Fearn-Zimmer is an Elder and Disability Law, Taxation, and Trusts and Estates attorney. She dedicates her practice to serving clients in the areas of elder and disability law, special needs planning, asset protection, tax and estate planning and estate administration. She also serves as Chair of the Elder & Disability Law section of the NJSBA.