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Social Security Publishes New Supplemental Security Income Rules Involving Same-Sex Married Couples

Social Security has published new instructions that allow the agency to process some Supplemental Security Income (SSI) claims by individuals who are in a same-sex marriage. These instructions come in response to last year's Supreme Court decision in U.S. v. Windsor which found Section 3 of the Defense of Marriage Act unconstitutional.

SSI is a program based on financial need, and the agency must consider the income and resources of the recipient and his or her spouse when determining eligibility and monthly payment.

"As with previous same-sex marriage policies, we worked closely with the Department of Justice," said Carolyn W. Colvin, Acting Commissioner of Social Security. "With the release of these instructions, we continue our commitment to treating all Americans fairly, with dignity and respect."

If a person believes he or she may be entitled to or eligible for benefits, they are encouraged to apply now.