Page 41

41

b. The a/b is not yet on the State Buy-in.

Note: The a/b can file a hardship case with SSA to request waiving or lowering a recoupment amount. Also, until the month the a/b is eligible to be added to the State Medicare Buy-In, count the Medicare premium toward deductible expenses or as an unmet medical need.

6. Count the gross amount of the RSDI benefit before any deductions for Medicare premiums, garnishment or seizure have been made in Step II of long-term care budgeting.

7. Count the RSDI amount actually received in step two of LTC budgeting when payment has been reduced due to a previous overpayment.

C. Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

SSI is only countable income to a beneficiary who is budgeted as long-term care.

1. Only count the $30 SSI maintenance payments made to a/b’s in long-term care, regardless of the amount of the SSI payment.

2. Verification sources.

a. On-line SDX listing. The SDX reflects the benefit amount of the current month.

b. Third Party Query (TPQY).

b. Award letter. However, TPQY is preferable as benefits may have increased subsequent to the award letter.

d. SSA-1610, Social Security - Public Assistance Information Request and Report. Send to SSA district office.

e. Copy of the check.

D. Veteran's Benefits At application and review, explore potential benefits for each budget unit member. Even if the a/b denies that anyone receives the benefit, explore the possibility. Refer to https://www.milvets.nc.gov and click on Benefits & Service tab to locate information regarding types of VA benefits and requirements for pension and compensation. To locate Veterans Service Officers in your county https://files.nc.gov/ncdmva/documents/files/DMVA_Resource_Guide- 2020.pdf#page=10 .