Social Security Omits Food From ISM Calculations, Expands Rent Subsidies

Many changes beneficial to Social Security recipients have become effective, even as the federal program is reeling under funding constraints.

A Social Security Administration office in Waycross, Ga., on Aug. 28, 2024. Madalina Vasiliu/The Epoch Times

Multiple Social Security Administration (SSA) policy updates, including rental and food calculations, which were designed to increase people’s access to federal benefits, took effect on Oct. 1.

From now on, the agency will no longer include food in in-kind support and maintenance (ISM) calculations. Furthermore, the SSA has expanded its rental subsidy policy exception, along with other beneficial amendments.