For most seniors, assisted living costs are more than what they receive from Social Security. According to a report from the National Center for Assisted Living, the median cost of assisted living is $4,000 per month.
Some seniors may be able to supplement their income with assistance from family members or friends. However, for many seniors, this is not an option.
Regular Social Security benefits are not enough to cover assisted living costs completely. Optional State Supplements (SSS) may be available to some, but this additional income is often insufficient.
Optional State Supplements: What Are They?
Optional State Supplement (OSS) programs are run by states and provide additional income to supplement the federal Social Security benefits of low-income seniors and those receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
The exact amount is dependent on the applicant’s income and assets, as well as the state in which they reside, but most OSS programs top out at around $100-$200 per month. Payments are made directly to the assisted living facility on behalf of the senior.
To be eligible for OSS, applicants must:
- Be 65 years of age or older
- Reside in skilled nursing facilities in St. Petersburg, FL
- Receive federal Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits
- Have low income and assets
- Meet any additional state-specific requirements
With these programs, it’s important to keep in mind that not all seniors will qualify and that each state has different requirements.
Can Social Security Benefits Help Pay for Fees for Assisted Living in Saint Petersburg, Florida?
There are several ways to help cover assisted living in Saint Petersburg, Florida, but Social Security benefits will only make up a small portion of the total cost for most seniors.
Optional state supplements may be available to some, but these are often not enough to completely cover the costs. For many seniors, help from family and friends is essential to afford their care.
