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We propose expanding the definition of a Public Assistance (PA) Household to include additional means-tested assistance programs. This will decrease the number of applicants and recipients charged in-kind support and maintenance, which will simplify living arrangement development within the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program.

This proposal reflects feedback we received from advocacy groups representing claimants and beneficiaries during listening sessions conducted under the authority of Executive Order (E.O.) 12866. These listening sessions took place during the development of the omitting food from the ISM calculations regulation in Fall 2022. We also received public comments submitted by these advocacy groups during the public comment period associated with the omitting food from ISM calculations NPRM. The Agency heard from these advocacy groups that the expansion of the definition of a PA household to include additional means-tested programs could help underserved families more easily access benefits and that this was a top priority. 

Statement of Need:

This change, adding SNAP to our regulatory definition of a public assistance household, would decrease the number of SSI applicants and recipients charged with in-kind support and maintenance (ISM). By doing so, it streamlines the ISM policy and resulting SSI program complexity, which supports the economic security of households who receive nutrition assistance.

Summary of the Legal Basis:

We are adding SNAP as a means-tested public income maintenance program to our regulatory definition of a public assistance household. This will streamline the policy and reduce the program complexity of ISM.

Alternatives:

The current proposal streamlines the SSI process.

Anticipated Costs and Benefits:

We estimate that implementation of this proposed rule would result in a total increase in Federal SSI payments of $14.8 billion over fiscal years 2024 through 2033, assuming implementation of this rule on May 15, 2024. 

Risks:

We do not anticipate risk to the integrity of our program.