JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – Mississippians could be affected by recent adjustments of certain federal benefits, including Social Security, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Veterans Benefits (VA), or Railroad Retirement.
According to the Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS), the changes primarily relate to the cost-of-living adjustment.
In 2025, beneficiaries of Social Security and SSI will receive a 2.5% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA). This increase is based on the rise in the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W) from the third quarter of 2023 through the third quarter of 2024.
Should your household income experience an increase as a result of these adjustments, the amount of SNAP benefits and/or TANF your household currently receives may decrease. In some cases, your case may even be closed.
SNAP Benefits Adjustment:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) beneficiaries should be aware that an increase in family income could reduce or end SNAP benefits.
Monthly Reporting Requirement:
- Both SSI and SNAP recipients must report any changes in wages, income, resources, and living conditions monthly. For detailed reporting guidelines, please visit the SNAP section of the MDHS website.
Fair Hearing Rights:
- Beneficiaries who believe there has been an error in their benefits calculation have the right to request a fair hearing, which may allow them to continue receiving benefits during the review process. To learn more, visit the Administrative Hearings Division – Mississippi Department of Human Services.
- If you have any questions or concerns regarding a change in income, you are encouraged to contact your local MDHS county office. To check eligibility or apply for SNAP benefits, please visit the Mississippi Common Web Portal.