RAISE THE MINIMUM SSI LEVEL
In the wealthiest nation on Earth, no one should live below the poverty line — especially not seniors and people with disabilities who’ve spent their lives contributing to the country. Yet millions survive on SSI checks so low they can’t cover rent, food, or basic dignity. America can do better — and must.
THE PROBLEM
The average SSI payment is much lower than the maximum. Northwestern Mutual
The maximum federal payment for an individual in 2025 is $967/month.
- State-specific benefits can result in higher payments in certain states
Recipients are punished for saving money, marrying, or earning even small amounts of income.
SSI is tied to outdated cost-of-living formulas that ignore modern rent, food, and medical costs.
Many seniors and disabled individuals are forced to skip medication, share housing, or live in cars just to stretch their benefits.
No one who worked, contributed, or simply survived long enough to grow old should be treated like a burden.
OUR PLAN - DIGNITY THROUGH REAL SUPPORT
We will modernize and humanize Supplemental Security Income so it actually secures something:
Raise the Minimum SSI Benefit — Set the floor at $4,000–$5,000 per month, indexed to inflation and local cost of living.
Remove the Asset & Marriage Penalties — Stop punishing people for having savings or love.
Streamlined Review & Renewal — End redundant paperwork that strips people of benefits for missing a form.
Automatic Adjustment for Inflation — No more years-long congressional fights just to keep up with rising prices.
Universal SSI Enrollment for Qualifying Seniors — If you’re eligible, you’re automatically enrolled — no more bureaucratic scavenger hunt.
WHY IT MATTERS
SSI was designed to guarantee a minimum standard of living — not a minimum chance of survival.
Raising the floor to a livable level doesn’t just keep people off the street — it gives millions back their freedom, stability, and dignity. A country that can afford tax breaks for billionaires can afford three square meals for its elders.
“In a nation this rich, poverty is not a lack of money — it’s a lack of priorities.”