2181. State Supplementary Payments

2181.1 What are the types of State supplementary payments?

There are two types of State supplementary payments: mandatory and optional.

2181.2 When are State supplementary payments mandatory?

If you were converted to SSI from a State assistance program, your State must supplement the SSI amount. The amount of the supplement is what is necessary to provide you the same level of payment you had before you were converted to SSI.

Payments may be issued directly by the State or the State may elect Federal administration where the mandatory payment and the SSI payment are combined in one payment by the Federal Government.

2181.3 When are State supplementary payments optional?

Most States provide supplementary payments to SSI recipients. These payments vary from State to State and reflect differences in regional living costs. Supplementary payments may be made directly by the State or combined with the SSI payment (by mutual agreement of SSA and State agencies).

A Social Security office can let you know whether your State participates in this program. If so, you can file an application at a Social Security office or at a local welfare office.

Last Revised: March, 2001