A new rule states that food assistance will no longer reduce payments to certain beneficiaries of Supplemental Security Income (SSI). This means that those receiving SSI can now receive groceries or meals from family or friends without worrying about it affecting their monthly benefits. The change aims to address the complex and burdensome policies that impact people with disabilities and aims to simplify the application process for SSI.
For ex-spouses who have been married for over 10 years, Social Security rules allow them to claim benefits based on their former partner's work history. If that ex-spouse dies, the benefit value can potentially double, providing financial security for the survivor.