top of page

Means Tested Government Benefits and the CARES Act. ** UPDATED

Updated: Apr 6, 2020



UPDATED:


Please note the update that is listed on SSA's official Blog regarding SSI payments and the CARES ACT. SSA has confirmed that they will not consider economic impact payments as income for SSI recipients, and the payments will be excluded from resources for 12 months.



ORIGINAL POST:

Individuals receiving means-tested government benefits such as SSI are understandably concerned regarding the payments that will be provided to individuals and families under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act “CARES Act”.  While payments will be made directly from the United States Treasury, and not Social Security, individuals currently receiving government benefits may wonder if receipt of those relief payments will be counted against them in this uncertain time when financial assistance is so desperately needed. Specifically, individuals receiving SSI may be concerned that the relief payment provided under the CARES Act will raise their assets over the $2,000 threshold and result in a reduction of other government benefits.  Although the Social Security Administration is expected to issue an Emergency Memo in the next few days providing definitive guidance on this issue, in the interim, it is our understanding that SSA will treat the CARES Act relief payments the same way it treats tax refunds. Thus, the payments will not be countable for purposes of income/asset eligibility under 26 U.S.C § 6409. This is good news for individuals currently receiving governmental benefits.  Information regarding the CARES Act payments is regularly updated and clarified on SSA.gov.  Fitzgerald & Sadove PLLC is monitoring that guidance on a daily basis and is here for you and your family.  Stay healthy and safe! 




 
 
 

6 Comments


Alex Hartley
Alex Hartley
5 days ago

I read the article about means-tested government benefits and the CARES Act and thought it did a good job explaining how people on programs like SSI were worried the relief payments might hurt their eligibility, but social security says those payments won’t count as income under the rules right now. product description writing services was something I used once when I was stuck on a long school write-up and needed help making my sentences easier to follow, so I could focus on the ideas. Your post made me think that clear explanations really help people understand big policy in everyday life.

Like

Zakk Daniel
Zakk Daniel
5 days ago

I read your post on means-tested government benefits and the CARES Act and appreciated how you explained people’s worry that the relief payments might affect their current benefit eligibility, and how Social Security said those payments won’t count against SSI income rules.  I remember when I was stuck on a big school assignment and needed university application essay editing to help me fix my own messy words before I sent it in to my teacher, so my ideas could shine through clearly. Your article made me think about how clear info helps people stay informed in tricky times.

Like

Kyle Richards
Kyle Richards
5 days ago

I found the article about means-tested government benefits and the CARES Act really helpful because it breaks down complex policy in a way that makes sense for everyday readers. Last term when I was overwhelmed with my big paper I used economics dissertation help online to get past a confusing section so I could focus on understanding things like this clearly. That taught me that getting through hard parts helps you think better about real issues.

Like

For security professionals, understanding what is data processing is key to managing surveillance systems and access logs. It ensures that every entry and exit is recorded and can be audited if necessary. The College of Contract Management offers courses that cover the essential aspects of safety and security management. Efficient data handling protects people and property in both public and private spaces.

Like

Hermoine Anderson
Hermoine Anderson
Sep 10, 2025

Want to accelerate your career? At the UNICCM, we provide adaptable online courses in Contract Management, Data Science, CAD Design, and Health & Social Care, assisting you in acquiring the skills that employers seek. With respected industry credentials and hands-on, real-world expertise, UNICCM enables you to open new doors and reach your objectives. Become part of thousands of successful alumni—your future is only a click away!

Like

Fitzgerald & Sadove PLLC

FOLLOW US:

  • Facebook Social Icon
  • LinkedIn Social Icon
bottom of page