DISABILITY SCOOP: Bill Would Protect SSI Benefits For Couples Who Marry
Under current law, when two people who rely on SSI marry, their benefits can be at risk because they must jointly report their income. They would receive 25% less than they would if they lived together but didn’t marry. Under a new bill, couples (who both rely on Supplemental Security Income) would be protected if they choose to marry. The bill would also ensure SSI wouldn't be affected by marital status-- meaning if a person receiving benefits marries somebody who doesn't, SSI benefit calculations would only be based onthe person with the disability income. Their spouse's earnings wouldn't be a factor.
