Social Security recently made headlines by paying out more than $1.1 million in payments to 400 individuals with terminal illnesses. This significant payout was made possible through an underused Supplemental Security Income (SSI) rule, which provides financial assistance to individuals with limited income and resources who are visually impaired, disabled, or aged 65 and older. These 400 individuals were approved for SSI due to their inability to work as a result of terminal illnesses such as chronic heart failure, chronic kidney disease, leukemia, and various cancers.
The process of identifying disability applications involving terminal illnesses is crucial, and Social Security aims to expedite these cases at every step of the process. When a person is approved for SSI, they may be owed money for past months from the date of application to the date of approval, known as an underpayment. The Social Security Act typically requires large underpayments to be released in up to three installments six months apart. However, exceptions can be made for cases involving terminal illnesses, allowing for the full underpayment to be released in a lump sum.
Despite flagging these applications for priority processing, Social Security initially held the underpayments for installments. Once the delay was identified, action was taken to release over $1.1 million in back pay to these individuals. Timely payments are crucial for SSI recipients, as many rely solely on these benefits to cover basic needs such as food, rent, clothing, and medicine. For individuals with terminal illnesses, receiving their back payments in full without delay is even more urgent to alleviate financial hardship.
In addition to addressing delays in underpayments for terminal illness cases, Social Security is working to increase awareness about other exceptions to the SSI installment process. For example, the amount of the first and second installment payments can be increased for individuals with certain debts and expenses related to food, clothing, shelter, medical services, supplies, equipment, and more. A recent policy revision has made it easier for individuals to receive increased installment payments without the need for extensive documentation of outstanding debts and expenses.
As Social Security celebrates the 50th anniversary of the SSI program, efforts are ongoing to expand access, simplify the application process, and improve the accuracy and timeliness of underpayments. Individuals interested in learning more about SSI eligibility and benefits can visit the Social Security Administration’s SSI page for additional information.
In conclusion, the recent payout of over $1.1 million to individuals with terminal illnesses highlights the importance of timely and accurate financial assistance for those in need. By streamlining processes, increasing awareness of exceptions, and prioritizing cases of urgency, Social Security continues to support vulnerable populations and improve the delivery of essential benefits.
