I have been living with a back injury, which has left me reliant on Supplemental Security Income (SSI) to get by. I live in Washington State, one of the most expensive places to reside in the U.S., where my monthly SSI benefit of $967  does not cover the cost of living—even in the direst of circumstances. Imagine trying to survive on that amount when the state's current cost of living requires an individual to earn approximately $109,657.60 annually just to meet basic needs  of  housing, food, utilities, transportation, and healthcare. 

The current structure of SSI is such that any earnings over $68 result in a $0.50 reduction in SSI benefits for each dollar of earned income. (before Taxes) This discourages recipients like myself from working, as it places a financial penalty on earning income above a minimal threshold. This is not just unjust, it's impractical in today's economic climate. A change is necessary—a modification that would allow SSI recipients to earn up to $1033 per month without any reduction in benefits. By doing so, we would be creating an opportunity for people like me to reach a combined total income of $2000 monthly, reflecting a more realistic figure for survival in high-cost regions.

Washington State, and indeed the nation at large, is facing a cost of living crisis. Housing, essential services, and basic commodities have all skyrocketed in price. The SSI payment of $11,604 annually is simply insufficient. Allowing us to earn more without being penalized is not just fair, it's necessary. Implementing this change would bridge the significant gap between income and expenses for SSI recipients, giving us hope and the chance to live with dignity. As well as help to preserve the Social Security Administrations longevity, because This change would also bring more money into the administration, through more people paying into the program instead of only depleating it. 

It’s time for a policy adjustment that aligns with current economic realities. Sign this petition to urge lawmakers to reform the SSI program, ensuring that those of us who depend on it have a pathway to financial stability. Your signature can make a real difference in the lives of many who are struggling financially while battling disability. Please sign and share this petition to advocate for a much-needed change in SSI regulations. As well as an update to the guidelines that determine eligibility. Update federal poverty levels, in accordance with the  true current 2025 cost of living, instead of guidelines that were established and have remained unchanged since 1963.