Legal Question in Social Security Law in Pennsylvania

SSI and rent

If a couple, receiving ONE SSI check, currently is able to live in a rent free situation, can her SSI be docked a certain amount because she is no longer paying rent? She is worried that although she is receiving full SSI benefits, they will be cut due to less money going out. Your answer is appreciated.


Asked on 1/23/08, 1:17 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Randall Selagy F. Randall Selagy, P.C.

Re: SSI and rent

SSI is a needs-based or welfare program. Any income or resource received can be used to adjust the monthly benefit. Free rent is viewed like subsidized housing.

And you have a duty to report any change in finacial circumstance.

If SSA finds out you did not disclose a finacial change, it can adjust your monthly benefit retroactively - which means you will be charged with an over-payment.

That means you will have to pay back all of the benfits you received over and above the adjusted monthly benefit.

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Answered on 1/23/08, 5:52 pm


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