The adequacy of Supplemental Security Income benefits for aged individuals and couples

Information is provided on the adequacy of benefits using state-level data on costs and benefits and multiple indicators of adequacy. Maximum Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits for aged persons are generally shown to be inadequate. However, when income from other sources is included, couples' SSI benefits appear more adequate when compared to the preferred measures, while those for individuals remain inadequate. Adequacy is also compared across states, and a multivariate analysis is conducted to determine factors that may predict the presence or amount of state supplementary payments. Policy options for improving the adequacy of benefits are discussed.