'They'll Take Away My Benefits If I Move In With You': Why One Disabled Mom Fears Living With Her Adult Child

Many people rely on Reddit to navigate confusing financial and government systems — and the r/SocialSecurity subreddit is no exception. One recent post drew attention for highlighting a common but complicated concern: how Supplemental Security Income, or SSI, benefits may be affected if a recipient moves in with family.

A user wrote about their mother, 48, who recently began receiving Social Security benefits after a successful disability claim. "She's permanently disabled due to a back injury from a car accident in 2008," the post explained. "My mom swears she was told she cannot live with anyone who has income or she will lose or have her benefits reduced."

Don't Miss:

• Hasbro, MGM, and Skechers trust this AI marketing firm — Invest before it's too late.
• Deloitte's fastest-growing software company partners with Amazon, Walmart & Target – Many are rushing to grab 4,000 of its pre-IPO shares for just $0.30/share!

The poster added that the home is under their father's name — the mother's legally separated spouse — and that the poster and their father pay half the mortgage. The mother is hesitant to move in, fearing that Social Security will "look up who owns the house and question why she’s living at her ex-husband's house," according to the post. "She's so paranoid, but is this true?"

Understanding the Confusion Around SSI

The confusion likely stems from how the Social Security Administration treats SSI versus Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI. Several Reddit users pointed this out in the comments.

"If she's on SSI, the rules are indeed very strict," one commenter explained. "If SSDI, it doesn't matter where she lives or what her assets are."

The distinction is important. SSDI is based on work history and is not income-tested, meaning living with someone who has income — even a family member — usually doesn't affect your benefits. SSI, on the other hand, is a needs-based program for people with limited income and assets. In SSI cases, help with housing can reduce the benefit amount.

Trending: Maker of the $60,000 foldable home has 3 factory buildings, 600+ houses built, and big plans to solve housing — this is your last chance to become an investor for $0.80 per share.

How Living Arrangements Can Affect SSI

According to the SSA, your living situation can directly impact your SSI benefit. If someone else — like a child or other family member — provides free shelter or pays your rent, your monthly SSI payment may be reduced by up to one-third of the federal benefit rate.

However, there are ways to avoid this reduction. Many Reddit commenters recommended creating a formal rental agreement.

"Do a legal lease," one user advised. "She rents a room and pays. There should be proof of her paying rent. Having a receipt." Several others chimed in to say they use this approach with their own parents who receive SSI.

The SSA's own guidance confirms this approach. As long as an SSI recipient pays their fair share of household expenses — rent, utilities, etc. — they can still receive the full benefit amount.

See Also: Maximize saving for your retirement and cut down on taxes: Schedule your free call with a financial advisor to start your financial journey – no cost, no obligation. 

Policy Changes in 2024

One key change that may help ease concerns: as of Sept. 30, the SSA has updated how it treats meals provided by others. If someone pays for your food but not your shelter, your SSI will no longer be reduced. However, if someone pays for both your food and shelter, your benefit may still be reduced.

This nuance is likely why the original poster's mother is so worried — and why clear, personalized advice is often needed.

Bottom Line

If you or a loved one receives SSI and is considering moving in with a family member, it's essential to understand the SSA's rules on household contributions. A written lease and proof of payment can make all the difference. SSDI recipients generally have more flexibility, but with SSI, even small changes in living arrangements can impact benefits.

Read Next:

• Invest where it hurts — and help millions heal: Invest in Cytonics and help disrupt a $390B Big Pharma stronghold.
• ‘Scrolling To UBI' — Deloitte's #1 fastest-growing software company allows users to earn money on their phones. You can invest today for just $0.30/share with a $1000 minimum.

Image: Shutterstock