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SNAP CERTIFICATION MANUAL – APPENDIX G

Retroactive Benefits A Guide to Sources of Unearned Income 11 and shelter are provided. The reduction applies only for the months in which the living arrangement exists. The FBR is also reduced if a beneficiary receives food, clothing, or shelter from others. The reduction, which depends on the value of the support received, generally does not exceed one- third of the FBR. Countable resources may not exceed: • $1,500 for an individual, or • $2,250 for a couple. • Individuals may be disqualified for receiving SSI due to: • Residence in a public institution if not receiving Medicaid; • Failure to accept treatment for drug addiction or alcoholism; • Absence from the U.S.; • Refusal to accept vocational rehabilitation services; or • Failure to apply for other benefits, pensions, etc., for which the individual is potentially eligible. Individuals may qualify for both SSI benefits and Social Security benefits if they meet the requirements of each. Individuals who became entitled to a minimum Social Security benefit prior to 1982 continue to receive that benefit. Those who became entitled to a Social Security benefit after 1981 receive an amount based on their earnings in covered employment or self- employment. The amount of an SSI benefit is reduced if other income (including Social Security benefits) is received. The eligibility of each SSI recipient is re-determined periodically to insure that eligibility continues and that payments are in the proper amount. Retroactive Benefits A person may be retroactively entitled to monthly SSA or SSI benefits before the month in which the application was filed. Retirement and survivor claims may be paid retroactively for up to 6 months and disability benefits may be paid retroactively for up to 12 months. Entitlement begins with the first month in which all the requirements were met during the designated period. In some cases, a person may receive retroactive benefits even if he is no longer eligible when the application is filed. In these situations, benefits begin 6 months (or 12 months in certain cases involving disability) prior to the month when the application was filed and end with the month prior to the month eligibility ends.