Bill > S04744

This bill increases the "personal needs allowance," which is the amount of money individuals can keep for their personal expenses while receiving certain government benefits, such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and additional state payments. Specifically, for residents of residential health care facilities, the allowance will increase from $55 to $200 per month for those receiving SSI/additional state payments, and from $50 to $200 per month for those not receiving these benefits. For residents of intermediate care facilities or patients in certain mental health hospitals, the allowance will increase from $35 to $89 per month for those receiving SSI/additional state payments, and from $35 to $89 per month for those not receiving these benefits. The bill also mandates that these increased allowance amounts will be subject to an annual adjustment starting January 1, 2026, to reflect changes in the Consumer Price Index (CPI), a measure of inflation. Additionally, the bill clarifies provisions for veterans and surviving spouses receiving reduced pensions, ensuring their personal needs allowance is calculated to include their pension plus the standard allowance amounts. The changes are set to take effect on January 1, 2026.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S4744