Last week, the Supreme Court of the United States reached a historic decision to legalize same-sex marriages. This monumental ruling will impact many different government programs and services. Researchers believe this could be a good thing, as studies have indicated operational costs will be significantly decreased by the decision.
Take Social Security Disability benefits and Supplemental Security Income as a prime example. In order to qualify for these benefits, an individual must meet certain income standards that are measured through what’s known as a means test. Under previous laws, applicants to Social Security Disability programs who were involved in a long-term same sex relationship would file as single and only have their income considered. Under the new law though, if the individual is legally married, their partner’s income will be taken into consideration. This means an individual who would have previously qualified for benefits may now make too much money to qualify for assistance.
According to an article from FOX Business, the decision could mean an extra $100 million in the government’s pocket just from Supplemental Security Income.
The ruling also means same sex couples may be entitled to receive benefits like spousal or survivor benefits.
At Newlin Disability, we recognize how the SCOTUS ruling will impact hundreds of thousands—if not millions—of lives. If you have questions regarding how the decision could affect your Social Security Disability or Supplemental Security Income, feel free to call the team of Social Security Disability lawyers at Newlin Disability to get the answers that you need.
