In-Kind Support and Maintenance — ISM
In-Kind Support and Maintenance is free food or shelter you get from someone else. It can lower your SSI payment because SSA treats it as income.
Official source: ssa.gov
In-Kind Support and Maintenance is free food or a free place to live that you get. Someone else gives it to you. This can be a friend, a family member, or a charity. For example, if your friend lets you live in their spare room for free, that is in-kind support. Or if your family regularly buys your groceries, that is also a type of in-kind support.
This applies to people who get Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSI is a payment from the government. It helps people who are older, blind, or have disabilities. These people also must have low income and few resources. The government looks at all your income and resources to decide how much SSI you get.
This matters because the Social Security Administration (SSA) counts in-kind support as income. Even though it is not money, SSA sees it as something valuable you are getting. Because of this, getting free food or a free place to live can make your SSI payment smaller. This is because SSA thinks you need less money if you are already getting help with food or shelter.
If you get SSI and someone gives you free food or a free place to live, tell the Social Security Administration. You can call them or visit your local SSA office. It is important to report changes in your living situation. This helps make sure you get the right amount of SSI each month.
In real life
- A person who lives rent-free with family may have their SSI reduced under ISM rules.
- Sarah's friend lets her stay in their spare room without paying, so the government counts that as some money Sarah gets.
- When David's brother buys all his groceries, the social security office considers that like extra income for David.
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Frequently asked questions about In-Kind Support and Maintenance
What is In-Kind Support and Maintenance?+
In-Kind Support and Maintenance is free food or shelter you get from someone else. It can lower your SSI payment because SSA treats it as income.
Who qualifies for In-Kind Support and Maintenance?+
People with limited income and resources who are 65+, blind, or have a qualifying disability. SSI does not require a work history.
How do I apply for In-Kind Support and Maintenance?+
Apply online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at your local Social Security office. There's no cost to apply. Official forms and instructions: https://www.ssa.gov/ssi/text-living-ussi.htm.
Where can I get help?+
Use BenefitKarma's free Benefit Eligibility Screener to see if you qualify for SSI, then start your application at ssa.gov or your local Social Security office. There's no cost to apply.
Source: ssa.gov