Eligibility for benefits
“Eligible individual” defined
Each aged, blind, or disabled individual who does not have an eligible spouse and—
whose income, other than income excluded pursuant to section 1382a(b) of this title, is at a rate of not more than $1,752 (or, if greater, the amount determined under section 1382f of this title) for the calendar year 1974 or any calendar year thereafter, and
whose resources, other than resources excluded pursuant to section 1382b(a) of this title, are not more than (i) in case such individual has a spouse with whom he is living, the applicable amount determined under paragraph (3)(A), or (ii) in case such individual has no spouse with whom he is living, the applicable amount determined under paragraph (3)(B),
shall be an eligible individual for purposes of this subchapter.
Each aged, blind, or disabled individual who has an eligible spouse and—
whose income (together with the income of such spouse), other than income excluded pursuant to section 1382a(b) of this title, is at a rate of not more than $2,628 (or, if greater, the amount determined under section 1382f of this title) for the calendar year 1974, or any calendar year thereafter, and
whose resources (together with the resources of such spouse), other than resources excluded pursuant to section 1382b(a) of this title, are not more than the applicable amount determined under paragraph (3)(A),
shall be an eligible individual for purposes of this subchapter.
The dollar amount referred to in clause (i) of paragraph (1)(B), and in paragraph (2)(B), shall be $2,250 prior to
The dollar amount referred to in clause (ii) of paragraph (1)(B), shall be $1,500 prior to
Amount of benefits
The benefit under this subchapter for an individual who does not have an eligible spouse shall be payable at the rate of $1,752 (or, if greater, the amount determined under section 1382f of this title) for the calendar year 1974 and any calendar year thereafter, reduced by the amount of income, not excluded pursuant to section 1382a(b) of this title, of such individual.
The benefit under this subchapter for an individual who has an eligible spouse shall be payable at the rate of $2,628 (or, if greater, the amount determined under section 1382f of this title) for the calendar year 1974 and any calendar year thereafter, reduced by the amount of income, not excluded pursuant to section 1382a(b) of this title, of such individual and spouse.
Period for determination of benefits
An individual’s eligibility for a benefit under this subchapter for a month shall be determined on the basis of the individual’s (and eligible spouse’s, if any) income, resources, and other relevant characteristics in such month, and, except as provided in paragraphs (2), (3), (4), (5), and (6), the amount of such benefit shall be determined for such month on the basis of income and other characteristics in the first or, if the Commissioner of Social Security so determines, second month preceding such month. Eligibility for and the amount of such benefits shall be redetermined at such time or times as may be provided by the Commissioner of Social Security.
The amount of such benefit for the month in which an application for benefits becomes effective (or, if the Commissioner of Social Security so determines, for such month and the following month) and for any month immediately following a month of ineligibility for such benefits (or, if the Commissioner of Social Security so determines, for such month and the following month) shall—
be determined on the basis of the income of the individual and the eligible spouse, if any, of such individual and other relevant circumstances in such month; and
in the case of the first month following a period of ineligibility in which eligibility is restored after the first day of such month, bear the same ratio to the amount of the benefit which would have been payable to such individual if eligibility had been restored on the first day of such month as the number of days in such month including and following the date of restoration of eligibility bears to the total number of days in such month.
For purposes of this subsection, an increase in the benefit amount payable under subchapter II (over the amount payable in the preceding month, or, at the election of the Commissioner of Social Security, the second preceding month) to an individual receiving benefits under this subchapter shall be included in the income used to determine the benefit under this subchapter of such individual for any month which is—
the first month in which the benefit amount payable to such individual under this title is increased pursuant to section 1382f of this title, or
at the election of the Commissioner of Social Security, the month immediately following such month.
Notwithstanding paragraph (3), if the Commissioner of Social Security determines that reliable information is currently available with respect to the income and other circumstances of an individual for a month (including information with respect to a class of which such individual is a member and information with respect to scheduled cost-of-living adjustments under other benefit programs), the benefit amount of such individual under this subchapter for such month may be determined on the basis of such information.
The Commissioner of Social Security shall prescribe by regulation the circumstances in which information with respect to an event may be taken into account pursuant to subparagraph (A) in determining benefit amounts under this subchapter.
Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) and (2), any income which is paid to or on behalf of an individual in any month pursuant to (A) a State program funded under part A of subchapter IV, (B) section 672 of this title (relating to foster care assistance), (C) section 1522(e) of title 8 (relating to assistance for refugees), (D) section 501(a) of Public Law 96-422 (relating to assistance for Cuban and Haitian entrants), or (E) section 13 of title 25 (relating to assistance furnished by the Bureau of Indian Affairs), shall be taken into account in determining the amount of the benefit under this subchapter of such individual (and his eligible spouse, if any) only for that month, and shall not be taken into account in determining the amount of the benefit for any other month.
The dollar amount in effect under subsection (b) as a result of any increase in benefits under this subchapter by reason of section 1382f of this title shall be used to determine the value of any in-kind support and maintenance required to be taken into account in determining the benefit payable under this subchapter to an individual (and the eligible spouse, if any, of the individual) for the 1st 2 months for which the increase in benefits applies.
For purposes of this subsection, an application of an individual for benefits under this subchapter shall be effective on the later of—
the first day of the month following the date such application is filed, or
the first day of the month following the date such individual becomes eligible for such benefits with respect to such application.
The Commissioner of Social Security may waive the limitations specified in subparagraphs (A) and (B) of subsection (e)(1) on an individual’s eligibility and benefit amount for a month (to the extent either such limitation is applicable by reason of such individual’s presence throughout such month in a hospital, extended care facility, nursing home, or intermediate care facility) if such waiver would promote the individual’s removal from such institution or facility. Upon waiver of such limitations, the Commissioner of Social Security shall apply, to the month preceding the month of removal, or, if the Commissioner of Social Security so determines, the two months preceding the month of removal, the benefit rate that is appropriate to such individual’s living arrangement subsequent to his removal from such institution or facility.
Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) and (2), any nonrecurring income which is paid to an individual in the first month of any period of eligibility shall be taken into account in determining the amount of the benefit under this subchapter of such individual (and his eligible spouse, if any) only for that month, and shall not be taken into account in determining the amount of the benefit for any other month.
For purposes of subparagraph (A), payments to an individual in varying amounts from the same or similar source for the same or similar purpose shall not be considered to be nonrecurring income.
For purposes of this subsection, remuneration for service performed as a member of a uniformed service may be treated as received in the month in which it was earned, if the Commissioner of Social Security determines that such treatment would promote the economical and efficient administration of the program authorized by this subchapter.
Limitation on amount of gross income earned; “gross income” defined
Limitation on eligibility of certain individuals
Except as provided in subparagraphs (B), (C), (D), (E), and (G), no person shall be an eligible individual or eligible spouse for purposes of this subchapter with respect to any month if throughout such month he is an inmate of a public institution.
In any case where an eligible individual or his eligible spouse (if any) is, throughout any month (subject to subparagraph (G)), in a medical treatment facility receiving payments (with respect to such individual or spouse) under a State plan approved under subchapter XIX, or an eligible individual is a child described in section 1382c(f)(2)(B) of this title, or, in the case of an eligible individual who is a child under the age of 18, receiving payments (with respect to such individual) under any health insurance policy issued by a private provider of such insurance the benefit under this subchapter for such individual for such month shall be payable (subject to subparagraph (E))—
at a rate not in excess of $360 per year (reduced by the amount of any income not excluded pursuant to section 1382a(b) of this title) in the case of an individual who does not have an eligible spouse;
in the case of an individual who has an eligible spouse, if only one of them is in such a facility throughout such month, at a rate not in excess of the sum of—
the rate of $360 per year (reduced by the amount of any income, not excluded pursuant to section 1382a(b) of this title, of the one who is in such facility), and
the applicable rate specified in subsection (b)(1) (reduced by the amount of any income, not excluded pursuant to section 1382a(b) of this title, of the other); and
at a rate not in excess of $720 per year (reduced by the amount of any income not excluded pursuant to section 1382a(b) of this title) in the case of an individual who has an eligible spouse, if both of them are in such a facility throughout such month.
For purposes of this subsection, a medical treatment facility that provides services described in section 1396p(c)(1)(C) of this title shall be considered to be receiving payments with respect to an individual under a State plan approved under subchapter XIX during any period of ineligibility of such individual provided for under the State plan pursuant to section 1396p(c) of this title.
As used in subparagraph (A), the term “public institution” does not include a publicly operated community residence which serves no more than 16 residents.
A person may be an eligible individual or eligible spouse for purposes of this subchapter with respect to any month throughout which he is a resident of a public emergency shelter for the homeless (as defined in regulations which shall be prescribed by the Commissioner of Social Security); except that no person shall be an eligible individual or eligible spouse by reason of this subparagraph more than 6 months in any 9-month period.
Notwithstanding subparagraphs (A) and (B), any individual who—
is an inmate of a public institution, the primary purpose of which is the provision of medical or psychiatric care, throughout any month as described in subparagraph (A), or
is in a medical treatment facility throughout any month as described in subparagraph (B),
was eligible under section 1382h(a) or (b) of this title for the month preceding such month, and
under an agreement of the public institution or the medical treatment facility is permitted to retain any benefit payable by reason of this subparagraph,
may be an eligible individual or eligible spouse for purposes of this subchapter (and entitled to a benefit determined on the basis of the rate applicable under subsection (b)) for the month referred to in subclause (I) or (II) of clause (i) and, if such subclause still applies, for the succeeding month.
An individual who is an eligible individual or an eligible spouse for a month by reason of subparagraph (E) shall not be treated as being eligible under section 1382h(a) or (b) of this title for such month for purposes of clause (ii) of such subparagraph.
A person may be an eligible individual or eligible spouse for purposes of this subchapter, and subparagraphs (A) and (B) shall not apply, with respect to any particular month throughout which he or she is an inmate of a public institution the primary purpose of which is the provision of medical or psychiatric care, or is in a medical treatment facility receiving payments (with respect to such individual or spouse) under a State plan approved under subchapter XIX or, in the case of an individual who is a child under the age of 18, under any health insurance policy issued by a private provider of such insurance, if it is determined in accordance with subparagraph (H) or (J) that—
such person’s stay in that institution or facility (or in that institution or facility and one or more other such institutions or facilities during a continuous period of institutionalization) is likely (as certified by a physician) not to exceed 3 months, and the particular month involved is one of the first 3 months throughout which such person is in such an institution or facility during a continuous period of institutionalization; and
such person needs to continue to maintain and provide for the expenses of the home or living arrangement to which he or she may return upon leaving the institution or facility.
The benefit of any person under this subchapter (including State supplementation if any) for each month to which this subparagraph applies shall be payable, without interruption of benefit payments and on the date the benefit involved is regularly due, at the rate that was applicable to such person in the month prior to the first month throughout which he or she is in the institution or facility.
The Commissioner of Social Security shall establish procedures for the determinations required by clauses (i) and (ii) of subparagraph (G), and may enter into agreements for making such determinations (or for providing information or assistance in connection with the making of such determinations) with appropriate State and local public and private agencies and organizations. Such procedures and agreements shall include the provision of appropriate assistance to individuals who, because of their physical or mental condition, are limited in their ability to furnish the information needed in connection with the making of such determinations.
The Commissioner shall enter into an agreement, with any interested State or local institution comprising a jail, prison, penal institution, or correctional facility, or with any other interested State or local institution a purpose of which is to confine individuals as described in section 402(x)(1)(A)(ii) of this title, under which—
the institution shall provide to the Commissioner, on a monthly basis and in a manner specified by the Commissioner, the first, middle, and last names, social security account numbers or taxpayer identification numbers, prison assigned inmate numbers, last known addresses, dates of birth, confinement commencement dates, dates of release or anticipated dates of release, dates of work release, and, to the extent available to the institution, such other identifying information concerning the inmates of the institution as the Commissioner may require for the purpose of carrying out this paragraph and clause (iv) 1
the Commissioner shall pay to any such institution, with respect to each individual who receives in the month preceding the first month throughout which such individual is an inmate of the jail, prison, penal institution, or correctional facility that furnishes information respecting such individual pursuant to subclause (I), or is confined in the institution (that so furnishes such information) as described in section 402(x)(1)(A)(ii) of this title, a benefit under this subchapter for such preceding month, and who is determined by the Commissioner to be ineligible for benefits under this subchapter by reason of confinement based on the information provided by such institution, $400 (subject to reduction under clause (ii)) if the institution furnishes the information described in subclause (I) to the Commissioner within 15 days after the date such individual becomes an inmate of such institution, or $200 (subject to reduction under clause (ii)) if the institution furnishes such information after 15 days after such date but within 90 days after such date.
The dollar amounts specified in clause (i)(II) shall be reduced by 50 percent if the Commissioner is also required to make a payment to the institution with respect to the same individual under an agreement entered into under section 402(x)(3)(B) of this title.
The Commissioner shall maintain, and shall provide on a reimbursable basis, information obtained pursuant to agreements entered into under clause (i) to any Federal or federally-assisted cash, food, or medical assistance program for eligibility and other administrative purposes under such program, for statistical and research activities conducted by Federal and State agencies, and to the Secretary of the Treasury for the purposes of tax administration, debt collection, and identifying, preventing, and recovering improper payments under federally funded programs.
Payments to institutions required by clause (i)(II) shall be made from funds otherwise available for the payment of benefits under this subchapter and shall be treated as direct spending for purposes of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 [2 U.S.C. 900 et seq.].
The Commissioner may disclose information received pursuant to this paragraph to any officer, employee, agent, or contractor of the Department of the Treasury whose official duties require such information to assist in the identification, prevention, and recovery of improper payments or in the collection of delinquent debts owed to the United States, including payments certified by the head of an executive, judicial, or legislative paying agency, and payments made to individuals whose eligibility, or continuing eligibility, to participate in a Federal program (including those administered by a State or political subdivision thereof) is being reviewed.
Notwithstanding the provisions of section 552a of title 5 or any other provision of Federal or State law, the Secretary of the Treasury may compare information disclosed under subclause (I) with any other personally identifiable information derived from a Federal system of records or similar records maintained by a Federal contractor, a Federal grantee, or an entity administering a Federal program or activity and may redisclose such comparison of information to any paying or administering agency and to the head of the Federal Bureau of Prisons and the head of any State agency charged with the administration of prisons with respect to inmates whom the Secretary of the Treasury has determined may have been issued, or facilitated in the issuance of, an improper payment.
The comparison of information disclosed under subclause (I) shall not be considered a matching program for purposes of section 552a of title 5.
For the purpose of carrying out this paragraph, the Commissioner of Social Security shall conduct periodic computer matches with data maintained by the Secretary of Health and Human Services under subchapter XVIII or XIX. The Secretary shall furnish to the Commissioner, in such form and manner and under such terms as the Commissioner and the Secretary shall mutually agree, such information as the Commissioner may request for this purpose. Information obtained pursuant to such a match may be substituted for the physician’s certification otherwise required under subparagraph (G)(i).
No person shall be an eligible individual or eligible spouse for purposes of this subchapter if, after notice to such person by the Commissioner of Social Security that it is likely that such person is eligible for any payments of the type enumerated in section 1382a(a)(2)(B) of this title, such person fails within 30 days to take all appropriate steps to apply for and (if eligible) obtain any such payments.
Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in the criteria being used by the Commissioner of Social Security in determining when a husband and wife are to be considered two eligible individuals for purposes of this subchapter and when they are to be considered an eligible individual with an eligible spouse, the State agency administering or supervising the administration of a State plan under any other program under this chapter may (in the administration of such plan) treat a husband and wife living in the same medical treatment facility described in paragraph (1)(B) as though they were an eligible individual with his or her eligible spouse for purposes of this subchapter (rather than two eligible individuals), after they have continuously lived in the same such facility for 6 months, if treating such husband and wife as two eligible individuals would prevent either of them from receiving benefits or assistance under such plan or reduce the amount thereof.
No person shall be considered an eligible individual or eligible spouse for purposes of this subchapter with respect to any month if during such month the person is—
fleeing to avoid prosecution, or custody or confinement after conviction, under the laws of the place from which the person flees, for a crime, or an attempt to commit a crime, which is a felony under the laws of the place from which the person flees, or, in jurisdictions that do not define crimes as felonies, is punishable by death or imprisonment for a term exceeding 1 year regardless of the actual sentence imposed; or
violating a condition of probation or parole imposed under Federal or State law.
Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the Commissioner shall, for good cause shown, treat the person referred to in subparagraph (A) as an eligible individual or eligible spouse if the Commissioner determines that—
a court of competent jurisdiction has found the person not guilty of the criminal offense, dismissed the charges relating to the criminal offense, vacated the warrant for arrest of the person for the criminal offense, or issued any similar exonerating order (or taken similar exonerating action), or
the person was erroneously implicated in connection with the criminal offense by reason of identity fraud.
Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the Commissioner may, for good cause shown based on mitigating circumstances, treat the person referred to in subparagraph (A) as an eligible individual or eligible spouse if the Commissioner determines that—
the offense described in subparagraph (A)(i) or underlying the imposition of the probation or parole described in subparagraph (A)(ii) was nonviolent and not drug-related, and
in the case of a person who is not considered an eligible individual or eligible spouse pursuant to subparagraph (A)(ii), the action that resulted in the violation of a condition of probation or parole was nonviolent and not drug-related.
Notwithstanding any other provision of law (other than section 6103 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 and section 1306(c) of this title), the Commissioner shall furnish any Federal, State, or local law enforcement officer, upon the written request of the officer, with the current address, Social Security number, and photograph (if applicable) of any recipient of benefits under this subchapter, if the officer furnishes the Commissioner with the name of the recipient, and other identifying information as reasonably required by the Commissioner to establish the unique identity of the recipient, and notifies the Commissioner that—
the recipient is described in clause (i) or (ii) of paragraph (4)(A); and
the location or apprehension of the recipient is within the officer’s official duties.
Individuals outside United States; determination of status
Notwithstanding any other provision of this subchapter, no individual (other than a child described in section 1382c(a)(1)(B)(ii) of this title) shall be considered an eligible individual for purposes of this subchapter for any month during all of which such individual is outside the United States (and no person shall be considered the eligible spouse of an individual for purposes of this subchapter with respect to any month during all of which such person is outside the United States). For purposes of the preceding sentence, after an individual has been outside the United States for any period of 30 consecutive days, he shall be treated as remaining outside the United States until he has been in the United States for a period of 30 consecutive days.
For a period of not more than 1 year, the first sentence of paragraph (1) shall not apply to any individual who—
was eligible to receive a benefit under this subchapter for the month immediately preceding the first month during all of which the individual was outside the United States; and
demonstrates to the satisfaction of the Commissioner of Social Security that the absence of the individual from the United States will be—
for not more than 1 year; and
for the purpose of conducting studies as part of an educational program that is—
designed to substantially enhance the ability of the individual to engage in gainful employment;
sponsored by a school, college, or university in the United States; and
not available to the individual in the United States.
Individuals deemed to meet resources test
In the case of any individual or any individual and his spouse (as the case may be) who—
received aid or assistance for December 1973 under a plan of a State approved under subchapter I, X, XIV, or XVI,
has, since
has, since
the resources of such individual or such individual and his spouse (as the case may be) shall be deemed not to exceed the amount specified in subsections (a)(1)(B) and (a)(2)(B) during any period that the resources of such individual or such individual and his spouse (as the case may be) does not exceed the maximum amount of resources specified in the State plan, as in effect for October 1972, under which he or they received such aid or assistance for December 1973.
Individuals deemed to meet income test
In determining eligibility for, and the amount of, benefits payable under this section in the case of any individual or any individual and his spouse (as the case may be) who—
received aid or assistance for December 1973 under a plan of a State approved under subchapter X or XVI,
is blind under the definition of that term in the plan, as in effect for October 1972, under which he or they received such aid or assistance for December 1973,
has, since
has, since
there shall be disregarded an amount equal to the greater of (A) the maximum amount of any earned or unearned income which could have been disregarded under the State plan, as in effect for October 1972, under which he or they received such aid or assistance for December 1973, and (B) the amount which would be required to be disregarded under section 1382a of this title without application of this subsection.
Application and review requirements for certain individuals
Source
(Aug. 14, 1935, ch. 531, title XVI, § 1611, as added Pub. L. 92–603, title III, § 301,Notes
References in Text
Prior Provisions
Amendments
Effective Date of 2018 Amendment
Effective Date of 2004 Amendment
Effective Date of 1999 Amendments
Effective Date of 1997 Amendment
Effective Date of 1996 Amendment
In general.—
The amendments made by this section [amending this section and sections 1382c and 1383 of this title] shall apply to applications for benefits under title XVI of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 1381 et seq.] filed on or after the date of the enactment of this Act [
Benefits under title xvi.—
For purposes of this subsection, the term ‘benefits under title XVI of the Social Security Act’ includes supplementary payments pursuant to an agreement for Federal administration under section 1616(a) of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 1382e(a)], and payments pursuant to an agreement entered into under section 212(b) of Public Law 93–66 [set out below].”
The amendments made by paragraphs (1) and (4) [amending this section and sections 1382c and 1383c of this title] shall apply to any individual who applies for, or whose claim is finally adjudicated with respect to, supplemental security income benefits under title XVI of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 1381 et seq.] based on disability on or after the date of the enactment of this Act [
The amendments made by paragraphs (2) and (3) [enacting section 1383e of this title and amending section 1383 of this title] shall take effect on
whose claim for benefits is finally adjudicated on or after the date of the enactment of this Act [
whose eligibility for benefits is based upon an eligibility redetermination made pursuant to subparagraph (C).
Within 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [
For purposes of this paragraph, an individual’s claim, with respect to supplemental security income benefits under title XVI of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 1381 et seq.] based on disability, which has been denied in whole before the date of the enactment of this Act [
there is pending a request for either administrative or judicial review with respect to such claim, or
there is pending, with respect to such claim, a readjudication by the Commissioner of Social Security pursuant to relief in a class action or implementation by the Commissioner of a court remand order.
Notwithstanding the provisions of this paragraph, with respect to any individual for whom the Commissioner does not perform the eligibility redetermination before the date prescribed in subparagraph (C), the Commissioner shall perform such eligibility redetermination in lieu of a continuing disability review whenever the Commissioner determines that the individual’s eligibility is subject to redetermination based on the preceding provisions of this paragraph, and the provisions of section 1614(a)(4) of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 1382c(a)(4)] shall not apply to such redetermination.
For purposes of this paragraph, the phrase ‘supplemental security income benefits under title XVI of the Social Security Act’ includes supplementary payments pursuant to an agreement for Federal administration under section 1616(a) of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 1382e(a)] and payments pursuant to an agreement entered into under section 212(b) of Public Law 93–66 [set out below].”
Effective Date of 1994 Amendment; Sunset Provision
Sunset of 36-month rule.—
Section 1611(e)(3)(A)(v) of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 1382(e)(3)(A)(v)] (added by subparagraph (A) of this paragraph) shall cease to be effective with respect to benefits for months after September 2004.
Effective date.—
In general.—
Except as otherwise provided in this paragraph [amending this section and section 1383c of this title and enacting provisions set out as notes below], the amendments made by this paragraph shall apply with respect to supplemental security income benefits under title XVI of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 1381 et seq.] by reason of disability which are otherwise payable in months beginning after 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [
Referral and monitoring agencies.—
The amendments made by subparagraph (B) [amending this section] shall take effect 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [
Termination after 36 months.—
Clause (v) of section 1611(e)(3)(A) of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 1382(e)(3)(A)] (added by the amendment made by subparagraph (A) of this paragraph) shall apply with respect to supplemental security income benefits under title XVI of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 1381 et seq.] by reason of disability for months beginning after 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [
Effective Date of 1993 Amendment
Effective Date of 1989 Amendment
Effective Date of 1988 Amendment
Effective Date of 1987 Amendment
The amendment made by subsection (a) [amending this section] shall become effective
In the application of section 1611(e)(1)(D) of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 1382(e)(1)(D)] on and after the effective date of such amendment, months before January 1988 in which a person was an eligible individual or eligible spouse by reason of such section shall not be taken into account.”
Effective Date of 1986 Amendment
Effective Date of 1984 Amendment
Effective Date of 1983 Amendment
Effective Date of 1982 Amendment
Effective Date of 1981 Amendment and Transitional Provisions
The amendments made by this section [amending this section and section 1382a of this title] shall be effective with respect to months after the first calendar quarter which ends more than five months after the month in which this Act is enacted [August 1981].
The Secretary of Health and Human Services may, under conditions determined by him to be necessary and appropriate, make a transitional payment or payments during the first two months for which the amendments made by this section are effective. A transitional payment made under this section shall be deemed to be a payment of supplemental security income benefits.”
Effective Date of 1980 Amendment
Effective Date of 1976 Amendment
Effective Date of 1973 Amendment
Effective Date
Regulations
Construction of 1999 Amendment
Study of Denial of SSI Benefits for Family Farmers
Study of Other Potential Improvements in Collection of Information Respecting Public Inmates
Additional Report to Congress
Study by General Accounting Office
Report to Congress on Referral, Monitoring and Treatment Activities Relating to Alcoholics and Drug Addicts
Transition Rules for Current Beneficiaries
the first month of such eligibility beginning after 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act shall be treated as the individual’s first month of such eligibility; and
the Secretary shall notify the individual of the requirements of the amendments made by this paragraph [amending this section and section 1383c of this title] no later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act.”
Commission on Childhood Disability
Disability Review Required for SSI Recipients Who Are 18 Years of Age
Continuing Disability Reviews
Temporary Annual Minimum Number of Reviews.—
During each year of the 3-year period that begins on
Report to the Congress.—
Not later than
Notification of Possible Benefit Availability to Potential Supplemental Security Income Recipients
Assistance Paid Under Certain Housing Acts Not Considered in Determining Eligibility for Benefits Under This Subchapter; Effective Date
Special $50 Payment Under Tax Reduction Act of 1975
Adjustment of Individual’s Monthly Supplemental Security Income Payments; Regulations; Limitations
Medicaid Eligibility for Individuals Receiving Mandatory State Supplementary Payments; Effective Date
Federal Program of Supplemental Security Income; Supplemental Security Income Benefits for Essential Persons; Definitions of Qualified Individual and Essential Person
In determining (for purposes of title XVI of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 1381 et seq.], as in effect after December 1973) the eligibility for and the amount of the supplemental security income benefit payable to any qualified individual (as defined in subsection (b)), with respect to any period for which such individual has in his home an essential person (as defined in subsection (c))—
the dollar amounts specified in subsection (a)(1)(A) and (2)(A), and subsection (b)(1) and (2), of section 1611 of such Act [42 U.S.C. 1382], shall each be increased by $876 for each such essential person, and
the income and resources of such individual shall (for purposes of such title XVI [42 U.S.C. 1381 et seq.]) be deemed to include the income and resources of such essential person;
except that the provisions of this subsection shall not, in the case of any individual, be applicable for any period which begins in or after the first month that such individual—
does not but would (except for the provisions of subparagraph (B)) meet—
the criteria established with respect to income in section 1611(a) of such Act [42 U.S.C. 1382(a)], or
the criteria established with respect to resources by such section 1611(a) [42 U.S.C. 1382(a)] (or, if applicable, by section 1611(g) of such Act [42 U.S.C. 1382(g)]).
The provisions of section 1611(g) of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 1382(g)] (as in effect after December 1973) shall, in the case of any qualified individual (as defined in subsection (b)), be applied so as to include, in the resources of such individual, the resources of any person (described in subsection (b)(2)) whose needs were taken into account in determining the need of such individual for the aid or assistance referred to in subsection (b)(1).
For purposes of this section, an individual shall be a ‘qualified individual’ only if—
for the month of December 1973 such individual was a recipient of aid or assistance under a State plan approved under title I, X, XIV, or XVI of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 301 et seq., 1201 et seq., 1351 et seq., 1381 et seq.], and
in determining the need of such individual for such aid or assistance for such month under such State plan, there were taken into account the needs of a person (other than such individual) who—
was living in the home of such individual, and
was not eligible (in his or her own right) for aid or assistance under such State plan for such month.
The term ‘essential person’, when used in connection with any qualified individual, means a person who—
for the month of December 1973 was a person (described in subsection (b)(2)) whose needs were taken into account in determining the need of such individual for aid or assistance under a State plan referred to in subsection (b)(1) as such State plan was in effect for June 1973,
lives in the home of such individual,
is not eligible (in his or her own right) for supplemental security income benefits under title XVI of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 1381 et seq.] (as in effect after December 1973), and
is not the eligible spouse (as that term is used in such title XVI [42 U.S.C. 1381 et seq.]) of such individual or any other individual.
If for any month after December 1973 any person fails to meet the criteria specified in paragraph (2), (3), or (4) of the preceding sentence, such person shall not, for such month or any month thereafter be considered to be an essential person.”
Mandatory Minimum State Supplementation of Supplemental Security Income Benefits Program; December 1973 Income; Title XVI Benefit Plus Other Income; Reduction of Amount; Administration Agreement; Payments to Commissioner; State Constitutional Restriction
In order for any State (other than the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, Guam, or the Virgin Islands) to be eligible for payments pursuant to title XIX [42 U.S.C. 1396 et seq.], with respect to expenditures for any quarter beginning after December 1973, such State must have in effect an agreement with the Commissioner of Social Security (hereinafter in this section referred to as the ‘Commissioner of Social Security’) whereby the State will provide to individuals residing in the State supplementary payments as required under paragraph (2).
Any agreement entered into by a State pursuant to paragraph (1) shall provide that each individual who—
is an aged, blind, or disabled individual (within the meaning of section 1614(a) of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 1382c(a)], as enacted by section 301 of the Social Security Amendments of 1972), and
for the month of December 1973 was a recipient of (and was eligible to receive) aid or assistance (in the form of money payments) under a State plan of such State (approved under title I, X, XIV, or XVI, of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 301 et seq., 1201 et seq., 1351 et seq., 1381 et seq.])
shall be entitled to receive, from the State, the supplementary payment described in paragraph (3) for each month, beginning with January 1974, and ending with whichever of the following first occurs:
the month in which such individual dies, or
the first month in which such individual ceases to meet the condition specified in subparagraph (A);
except that no individual shall be entitled to receive such supplementary payment for any month, if, for such month, such individual was ineligible to receive supplemental income benefits under title XVI of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 1381 et seq.] by reason of the provisions of section 1611(e)(1)(A), (2), or (3) [42 U.S.C. 1382(e)(1)(A), (2), (3)], 1611(f) [42 U.S.C. 1382(f)], or 1615(c) of such Act [42 U.S.C. 1382d(c) of this title].
The supplementary payment referred to in paragraph (2) which shall be paid for any month to any individual who is entitled thereto under an agreement entered into pursuant to this subsection shall (except as provided in subparagraphs (D) and (E)) be an amount equal to (i) the amount by which such individual’s ‘December 1973 income’ (as determined under subparagraph (B)) exceeds the amount of such individual’s ‘title XVI benefit plus other income’ (as determined under subparagraph (C)) for such month, or (ii) if greater, such amount as the State may specify.
For purposes of subparagraph (A), an individual’s ‘December 1973 income’ means an amount equal to the aggregate of—
the amount of the aid or assistance (in the form of money payments) which such individual would have received (including any part of such amount which is attributable to meeting the needs of any other person whose presence in such individual’s home is essential to such individual’s well-being) for the month of December 1973 under a plan (approved under title I, X, XIV, or XVI, of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 301 et seq., 1201 et seq., 1351 et seq., 1381 et seq.]) of the State entering into an agreement under this subsection, if the terms and conditions of such plan (relating to eligibility for and amount of such aid or assistance payable thereunder) were, for the month of December 1973, the same as those in effect, under such plan, for the month of June 1973, together with the bonus value of food stamps for January 1972, as defined in section 401(b)(3) of Public Law 92–603 [set out as a note under section 1382e of this title], if, for such month, such individual resides in a State which provides State supplementary payments (I) of the type described in section 1616(a) of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 1382e(a)], and (II) the level of which has been found by the Commissioner of Social Security pursuant to section 8 of Public Law 93–233 [set out as notes under section 1382e of this title and sections 612c, 1431 and 2012 of Title 7, Agriculture] to have been specifically increased so as to include the bonus value of food stamps, and
the amount of the income of such individual (other than the aid or assistance described in clause (i)) received by such individual in December 1973, minus any such income which did not result, but which if properly reported would have resulted in a reduction in the amount of such aid or assistance.
For purposes of subparagraph (A), the amount of an individual’s ‘title XVI benefit plus other income’ for any month means an amount equal to the aggregate of—
the amount (if any) of the supplemental security income benefit to which such individual is entitled for such month under title XVI of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 1381 et seq.], and
the amount of any income of such individual for such month (other than income in the form of a benefit described in clause (i)).
If the amount determined under subparagraph (B)(i) includes, in the case of any individual, an amount which was payable to such individual solely because of—
a special need of such individual (including any special allowance for housing, or the rental value of housing furnished in kind to such individual in lieu of a rental allowance) which existed in December 1973, or
any special circumstance (such as the recognition of the needs of a person whose presence in such individual’s home, in December 1973, was essential to such individual’s well-being),
and, if for any month after December 1973 there is a change with respect to such special need or circumstance which, if such change had existed in December 1973, the amount described in subparagraph (B)(i) with respect to such individual would have been reduced on account of such change, then, for such month and for each month thereafter the amount of the supplementary payment payable under the agreement entered into under this subsection to such individual shall (unless the State, at its option, otherwise specifies) be reduced by an amount equal to the amount by which the amount (described in subparagraph (B)(i)) would have been so reduced.
In the case of an individual who, for December 1973 lived as a member of a family unit other members of which received aid (in the form of money payments) under a State plan of a State approved under part A of title IV of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 601 et seq.], such State at its option, may (subject to clause (ii)) reduce such individual’s December 1973 income (as determined under subparagraph (B)) to such extent as may be necessary to cause the supplementary payment (referred to in paragraph (2)) payable to such individual for January 1974 or any month thereafter to be reduced to a level designed to assure that the total income of such individual (and of the members of such family unit) for any month after December 1973 does not exceed the total income of such individual (and of the members of such family unit) for December 1973.
The amount of the reduction (under clause (i)) of any individual’s December 1973 income shall not be in an amount which would cause the supplementary payment (referred to in paragraph (2)) payable to such individual to be reduced below the amount of such supplementary payment which would be payable to such individual if he had, for the month of December 1973 not lived in a family, members of which were receiving aid under part A of title IV of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 601 et seq.], and had had no income for such month other than that received as aid or assistance under a State plan approved under title I, X, XIV, or XVI of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 301 et seq., 1201 et seq., 1351 et seq., 1381 et seq.].
Any State having an agreement with the Commissioner of Social Security under paragraph (1) may, at its option, include individuals receiving benefits under section 1619 of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 1382h], or who would be eligible to receive such benefits but for their income, under the agreement as though they are aged, blind, or disabled individuals as specified in paragraph (2)(A).
Any State having an agreement with the Commissioner of Social Security under subsection (a) may enter into an administration agreement with the Commissioner of Social Security whereby the Commissioner of Social Security will, on behalf of such State, make the supplementary payments required under the agreement entered into under subsection (a).
Any such administration agreement between the Commissioner of Social Security and a State entered into under this subsection shall provide that the State will (A) certify to the Commissioner of Social Security the names of each individual who, for December 1973, was a recipient of aid or assistance (in the form of money payments) under a plan of such State approved under title I, X, XIV, or XVI of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 301 et seq., 1201 et seq., 1351 et seq., 1381 et seq.], together with the amount of such assistance payable to each such individual and the amount of such individual’s December 1973 income (as defined in subsection (a)(3)(B)), and (B) provide the Commissioner of Social Security with such additional data at such times as the Commissioner of Social Security may reasonably require in order properly, economically, and efficiently to carry out such administration agreement.
Any State which has entered into an administration agreement under this subsection shall, in accordance with subparagraph (E), pay to the Commissioner of Social Security an amount equal to the expenditures made by the Commissioner of Social Security as supplementary payments to individuals entitled thereto under the agreement entered into with such State under subsection (a), plus an administration fee assessed in accordance with subparagraph (B) and any additional services fee charged in accordance with subparagraph (C).
The Commissioner of Social Security shall assess each State an administration fee in an amount equal to—
the number of supplementary payments made by the Commissioner of Social Security on behalf of the State under this subsection for any month in a fiscal year; multiplied by
the applicable rate for the fiscal year.
As used in clause (i), the term ‘applicable rate’ means—
for fiscal year 1994, $1.67;
for fiscal year 1995, $3.33;
for fiscal year 1996, $5.00;
for fiscal year 1997, $5.00;
for fiscal year 1998, $6.20;
for fiscal year 1999, $7.60;
for fiscal year 2000, $7.80;
for fiscal year 2001, $8.10;
for fiscal year 2002, $8.50; and
for fiscal year 2003 and each succeeding fiscal year—
the applicable rate in the preceding fiscal year, increased by the percentage, if any, by which the Consumer Price Index for the month of June of the calendar year of the increase exceeds the Consumer Price Index for the month of June of the calendar year preceding the calendar year of the increase, and rounded to the nearest whole cent; or
such different rate as the Commissioner determines is appropriate for the State.
Upon making a determination under clause (ii)(X)(bb), the Commissioner of Social Security shall promulgate the determination in regulations, which may take into account the complexity of administering the State’s supplementary payment program.
All fees assessed pursuant to this subparagraph shall be transferred to the Commissioner of Social Security at the same time that amounts for such supplementary payments are required to be so transferred.
The Commissioner of Social Security may charge a State an additional services fee if, at the request of the State, the Commissioner of Social Security provides additional services beyond the level customarily provided, in the administration of State supplementary payments pursuant to this subsection.
The additional services fee shall be in an amount that the Commissioner of Social Security determines is necessary to cover all costs (including indirect costs) incurred by the Federal Government in furnishing the additional services referred to in clause (i).
The first $5 of each administration fee assessed pursuant to subparagraph (B), upon collection, shall be deposited in the general fund of the Treasury of the United States as miscellaneous receipts.
The portion of each administration fee in excess of $5, and 100 percent of each additional services fee charged pursuant to subparagraph (C), upon collection for fiscal year 1998 and each subsequent fiscal year, shall be credited to a special fund established in the Treasury of the United States for State supplementary payment fees. The amounts so credited, to the extent and in the amounts provided in advance in appropriations Acts, shall be available to defray expenses incurred in carrying out this section and title XVI of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 1381 et seq.] and related laws.
Any State which has entered into an agreement with the Commissioner of Social Security under this section shall remit the payments and fees required under this paragraph with respect to monthly benefits paid to individuals under title XVI of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 1381 et seq.] no later than—
the business day preceding the date that the Commissioner pays such monthly benefits; or
with respect to such monthly benefits paid for the month that is the last month of the State’s fiscal year, the fifth business day following such date.
The Cash Management Improvement Act of 1990 [see Short Title of 1990 Amendment note set out under section 6501 of Title 31, Money and Finance] shall not apply to any payments or fees required under this paragraph that are paid by a State before the date required by clause (i).
Notwithstanding clause (i), the Commissioner may make supplementary payments on behalf of a State with funds appropriated for payment of supplemental security income benefits under title XVI of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 1381 et seq.], and subsequently to be reimbursed for such payments by the State at such times as the Commissioner and State may agree. Such authority may be exercised only if extraordinary circumstances affecting a State’s ability to make payment when required by clause (i) are determined by the Commissioner to exist.
Supplementary payments made pursuant to an agreement entered into under subsection (a) shall be excluded under section 1612(b)(6) of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 1382a(b)(6)] (as in effect after December 1973) in determining income of individuals for purposes of title XVI of such Act [42 U.S.C. 1381 et seq.] (as so in effect).
Supplementary payments made by the Commissioner of Social Security (pursuant to an administration agreement entered into under subsection (b)) shall, for purposes of section 401 of the Social Security Amendments of 1972 [set out as a note under section 1382e of this title], be considered to be payments made under an agreement entered into under section 1616 of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 1382e] (as enacted by section 301 of the Social Security Amendments of 1972); except that nothing in this paragraph shall be construed to waive, with respect to the payments so made by the Commissioner of Social Security, the provisions of subsection (b) of such section 401 [set out as a note under section 1382e of this title].
For purposes of subsection (a)(1), a State shall be deemed to have entered into an agreement under subsection (a) of this section if such State has entered into an agreement with the Commissioner of Social Security under section 1616 of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 1382e] under which—
individuals, other than individuals described in subsection (a)(2)(A) and (B), are entitled to receive supplementary payments, and
supplementary benefits are payable, to individuals described in subsection (a)(2)(A) and (B) at a level and under terms and conditions which meet the minimum requirements specified in subsection (a).
Except as the Commissioner of Social Security may by regulations otherwise provide, the provisions of title XVI of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 1381 et seq.] (as enacted by section 301 of the Social Security Amendments of 1972), including the provisions of part B of such title [42 U.S.C. 1383 et seq.], relating to the terms and conditions under which the benefits authorized by such title [42 U.S.C. 1381 et seq.] are payable shall, where not inconsistent with the purposes of this section, be applicable to the payments made under an agreement under subsection (b) of this section; and the authority conferred upon the Commissioner of Social Security by such title [42 U.S.C. 1381 et seq.] may, where appropriate, be exercised by him in the administration of this section.
The provisions of subsection (a)(1) shall not be applicable in the case of any State—
the Constitution of which contains provisions which make it impossible for such State to enter into and commence carrying out (on
the Attorney General (or other appropriate State official) of which has, prior to