People in Atlanta receiving Supplemental Security Income who later marry may be surprised at the hidden costs marriage can bring when it comes to benefits. While many may not expect a cut to their SSI upon marrying, the combined income of both parties may very well affect the amount they receive each month. Recently, a couple heavily dependent upon food stamps and Social Security Disability Insurance was surprised when the Social Security office informed them their SSI would effectively be cut in half.

Already struggling to make it and having low financial resources, the couple is experiencing stress attempting to make ends meet. The husband received $698 a month for Social Security Disability Insurance, and the wife received $674 a month in Supplemental Security Income. However, her payment dropped to only $369 when their incomes were combined when they got married. Questioning the change, she was told that because the marriage caused a change in their income, her payment was diminished.

Prior to their marriage, the couple asked if their benefits would be affected but were told that they wouldn't see more than a $5 or $10 change in their monthly payments. Obviously not the case, the couple stated that if they had known the financial impact their marriage would cause, they most likely would not have married. Suffering from bipolar disorder and seizures, the woman said her mental illness makes it difficult for her to go outside, let alone work.

The Social Security office indicated that divorce is the only way to reinstitute the full benefits previously received. However, a Social Security spokesman stated that payments do not change because of marriage but are instead based upon the number of years recipients have worked and their earnings. It remains to be seen whether this couple can convince the government to reinstate the benefits they were receiving before marriage. In the meantime, they are dependent on their reduced financial resources.

In Atlanta, the SSI process can be complex and intimidating to many. However, people can learn from what happened to this couple. Before making any important life decisions, it may be a wise step to learn about continued eligibility for SSI and SSDI and those seeking benefits would do well to become fully informed before applying.

Source: CDA Press, "The cost of marriage," Alecia Warren, Feb. 6, 2012