“If you receive SSI, you cannot accumulate more than $2,000 in assets, or $3,000 for couples. Though there is an exception for a home that you own and a vehicle, it’s extremely difficult for recipients to save the funds to acquire those things.”

“As a result of not being able to have a sufficient emergency fund, folks very frequently tell us that they’ve had difficulties with car repairs, home repairs, like getting a boiler fixed, or a roof patch,” says Milburn. And when it comes to building up the funds to purchase a home for themselves, she says it’s been “very much not possible for people on SSI.”

“One of the reasons these asset limits are so strict is that they’re outdated. The SSI program was created in 1972, and the limits haven’t been updated since 1989. According to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, the limit would now be nearly $10,000 if it had been updated for inflation.”

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1 Comment

  1. I’m going through the same exact situation with my disabled husband for 11 years now to the date 08/31/2023.I work for IHSS for 11 years for my husband ever since his heartattack and SSI claims my hard working money is his second income.Im only allowed one vehicle but when it breaks down and needs repair,I’m pretty much screwed cuz I also caregiver for my 88 yr.old mom and I don’t get paid for it.SSI canceled my husband’s benefits 4 yrs ago and they claim he owes thousands and thousands of dollars for repayment.There is no way I would ever be able to pay back that kind of money taking care of 2 disabled loved one’s.His benefits are suppose to be for him alone.Since the SSI program hasn’t been updated since 1989 with the cost of living,they need to update ASAP and they need to retro-pay him all back payments.This is going to make us all homeless again if to not corrected soon.Please,if there is anybody out there that has any good advice or that can assist me on our situation I would greatly appreciate it very much,thank you for reading.
    Mrs Theresa Rehfeld

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