TN 32 (07-90)

A. Introduction

As a program based on need , SSI uses the value of a person's resources as one of two “need” criteria in determining eligibility. (The other need criterion is income.) The general expectation is that individuals or couples whose resources exceed the applicable limit will use the excess to meet their needs before becoming eligible for SSI benefits.

B. Policy Principles

1. MONTHLY DETERMINATIONS

Eligibility with respect to resources is a determination made as of the first moment of each calendar month and applicable to the entire month. Subsequent changes have no effect until the following month's resources determination. Thus, resources eligibility (or ineligibility) exists for an entire month at a time. See SI 01110.600 on monthly determinations.

2. COUNTABLE RESOURCES

Not everything a person owns (i.e., not every asset) is a resource and not all resources count against the statutory limit. The Social Security Act and other Federal statutes require the exclusion of certain types and amounts of resources. Any assets that are resources but not specifically excluded are “countable.” See SI 01110.003 A.2. for the limits; SI 01110.100 for the distinction between assets and resources; and SI 01110.210 for a listing of exclusions.

3. RESOURCES AFFECT ELIGIBILITY, NOT PAYMENT AMOUNT

If countable resources do not exceed the applicable limit, they have no effect on the amount of SSI payments. If countable resources do exceed the limit, an individual (or couple) is not eligible  for any payment. See SI 01110.003 A.1.

4. CONDITIONAL BENEFITS DESPITE EXCESS NONLIQUID RESOURCES

Even though total resources exceed the limit, we may pay conditional benefits  if liquid resources are limited and the individual or couple agrees in writing to dispose of the excess and repay the resultant overpayment. See SI 01150.200 ff.

5. WHOSE RESOURCES CAN COUNT

In certain situations, the statute requires other people to share  financial responsibility for an individual or couple. In those situations, we consider the resources of the other person(s) along with resources actually belonging to the individual or couple. See SI 01110.530.