OTDA Issues 2017 SSI Benefit Levels Chart

The Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA) has just posted the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and State Supplemental Program (SSP) Benefit Levels Chart, effective Jan. 1, 2017. The chart reflects the federal cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) of 0.3 percent to the federal portion of the benefit. As a result, on Jan. 1, 2017, the Congregate Care Level 3 monthly benefit will go from the 2016 level of $1,427 to $1,429, and the personal needs allowance will increase from $193 to $194.

There was no COLA in 2016 to the SSI benefit, and thus the benefit levels for 2016 remained the same as those in 2015. Unfortunately, this year’s increase does little to close the widening gap between the cost of providing care in an adult care facility (ACF) and the SSI rate. LeadingAge NY has been advocating for years for an increase in the state portion of the benefit (SSP) to bring the rate up to current costs. There is no COLA built into the SSP, and any increase must be included in the state budget. We will continue to push for an increase.

We anticipate that the Department of Health (DOH) will issue a Dear Administrator letter soon announcing the increase and giving guidance on your notice to residents. We will let members know when this is available.

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