DOH Issues SSI COLA Letter for ACF Residents

The Department of Health (DOH) has issued the Dear Administrator Letter (DAL) announcing the 2024 cost of living adjustment (COLA) for residents who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Safety Net benefits. The DAL, along with the enclosure (2024 Benefits Chart), outlines the monthly benefits, consistent with what LeadingAge NY reported to members in November. The DAL also provides a notice that describes the changes effective Jan. 1, 2024, to be conspicuously posted in an area or areas accessible to residents. Lastly, the DAL reminds providers of regulatory requirements regarding notice of rate increases and offering the residents the opportunity to place Personal Needs Allowance (PNA) funds in a facility-maintained account if they do not already have a facility-maintained account for PNA.

As a reminder, the increase in the benefit results from a COLA to the federal portion of the benefit. The State Supplement Program (SSP) portion of the benefit remains stagnant. Members are reminded that LeadingAge NY has filed a lawsuit against the State regarding the inadequacy of SSP. Unfortunately, the legal process has been slow, and the matter remains unresolved at this time.

Contact: Diane Darbyshire, ddarbyshire@leadingageny.org, 518-867-8828