DOH DAL Regarding SSI COLA for ACFs Contains Errors
(Dec. 10, 2024) On Dec. 4th, the Department of Health (DOH) issued a Dear Administrator Letter (DAL) announcing the federal cost of living adjustment (COLA) for the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefit. The DAL outlines the benefit levels for adult care facility (ACF) and assisted living residents and reminds you of your obligations as a provider.
Unfortunately, an error has been discovered in the DAL. The effective amounts provided for 2025 were reflected accurately; however, the breakdown of the increase from 2024 to 2025 had errors, which are evident in both the DAL and the notice for residents.
DOH reports they are working to correct the communication, but outlines the correct amounts are as listed below for 2025:
- Individual: $1,661.00
- Couples: $3,322.00
- Personal Needs Allowance (PNA): $255
These amounts reflect an increase of $24 for individuals, $48 for couples, and $6 in PNA from the previous year. It is important to note that these errors are noted in both the DAL and the notice to residents. As such, we recommend that the notice to residents be removed awaiting correction.
DOH apologizes for any confusion or concerns this may have caused.
Contact: Diane Darbyshire, ddarbyshire@leadingageny.org, 518-867-8828