A new proposal from the federal government could cut benefits for hundreds of thousands of people who rely on Supplemental Security Income (SSI). According to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities (CBPP), a rule currently under review could cause significant harm to low income seniors and people with disabilities—particularly those living with family or friends who receive SNAP.
What’s Happening
In April 2024, the Social Security Administration made a small but meaningful change: it added SNAP to the list of public assistance programs that protect SSI recipients from cuts when they receive informal help, like housing or food. This was important because under current in-kind support and maintenance (ISM) rules, your SSI can be reduced by up to one-third—often about $300—if you’re getting help with living expenses.
If the household you’re living in receives public assistance, like SNAP, those ISM rules didn’t apply. The logic is simple: if your relatives are struggling enough to qualify for SNAP, they probably can’t afford to support you financially either.
But now the federal government wants to roll back that SNAP exemption, effectively treating informal help from someone on food stamps the same as help from someone who is financially stable.
This proposed rollback is no longer just talk. It has already been published on the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs website and is officially under review. If it’s approved, it could cause widespread reductions and even loss of benefits.
Who Will Be Affected
The CBPP estimates that nearly 400,000 people could be impacted by this rule change. Specifically, over 275,000 individuals may see their SSI benefits cut, and more than 100,000 could lose eligibility altogether.
This change would disproportionately affect those who live with others receiving SNAP. That includes many people with disabilities who rely on family support to avoid institutional care. Under the new rule, something as simple as staying with your parents or siblings—if they receive SNAP—could reduce your benefits or make you ineligible altogether.
States with the highest number of affected individuals include California, New York, Florida, Texas, and Pennsylvania. On the other hand, Alaska and Wyoming are expected to be the least impacted, likely due to their smaller populations.
Why This Matters
The potential consequences of this rule go far beyond reduced checks. Families might be discouraged from helping one another for fear of triggering benefit cuts. People who lose their SSI may also lose access to Medicaid, which often provides the healthcare and support services that allow disabled individuals to live independently in their communities.
The paperwork burden would also increase dramatically. ISM reporting is already complicated, requiring people to track and report exactly who pays for what household expenses. That information must be updated any time circumstances change—like when someone moves, rent increases, or someone else joins the household. This complexity already causes frequent overpayments and underpayments, leading to benefit clawbacks and financial stress.
What You Can Do Right Now
There’s not a lot of direct action to take just yet. The rule is still pending review, and there is no public comment period open at this time. However, it’s a good idea to stay informed, understand your rights, and prepare for potential changes.
If you believe you may qualify for SSDI based on your disability and work history, now may be a good time to look into that program. SSDI benefits are not subject to the same ISM rules, and qualifying could offer more stability during uncertain times.
Relief Recap
This proposed change would remove SNAP from the list of programs that protect SSI recipients from benefit reductions tied to in-kind support. If approved, it could lead to cuts or loss of SSI for nearly 400,000 Americans—many of whom rely on support from family or friends. While there are no immediate steps to take, staying informed and reviewing your eligibility for SSDI could help you navigate the challenges ahead.
This proposed rule sucks. Again, screw the low income and elderly – not to mention the additional, work and paperwork preparation placed on SSI staff – to benefit the very rich in tax breaks and less IRS oversight of their tax returns.
You’re absolutely right to be upset—this rule could have serious consequences for people who are already struggling. We’re keeping a close eye on it and will continue sharing updates as they come.