End the marriage penalty for disabled adults by passing H.R. 1389
The Issue
My name is Erika Heath and I want to share a deeply personal experience. I recently married the love of my life, a milestone that should be celebrated with joy and happiness. Yet, this joyous occasion was met with a bitter reality - a penalty on our vital benefits solely because we chose to marry. It’s disheartening to know that in today’s America, disabled adults like me must choose between love and the financial stability that we desperately rely upon.
When I decided to marry, I was aware of the potential financial consequences but never imagined the profound impact it would have on our lives. Not only are we restricted by a limit of $3,000 in our total accounts, but we also face the heartbreaking reality that any inheritance from my father’s 40+ years of contributions into the Social Security Administration could be unfairly taken away from us. This is not merely unjust – it is an unacceptable punishment to those who already face daily challenges due to their disabilities.
The current system essentially penalizes the act of marrying for love, forcing disabled adults to make an agonizing choice between financial security and personal happiness. This hardship resonates with countless others who are trying to lead fulfilling lives, yet are bound by outdated and punitive policies.
It’s time for Congress to listen to our voices and make real change. H.R. 1389 proposes eliminating the marriage penalty for adults with disabilities who rely on benefits such as SSI. This bill acknowledges the simple truth that love should not be penalized and that everyone deserves the right to marry without fear of losing critical assistance.
We urge our representatives to pass H.R. 1389 and embrace a vision of fairness and inclusivity. Inaction not only perpetuates the injustice faced by many but also disregards the basic rights of individuals to lead dignified and autonomous lives.
Please join us in calling for a change. Let love prevail, let fairness and justice thrive. Sign this petition to support the passing of H.R. 1389 and end the marriage penalty for disabled adults in America. Together, we can make a difference for hundreds of thousands of families who deserve better.
17
The Issue
My name is Erika Heath and I want to share a deeply personal experience. I recently married the love of my life, a milestone that should be celebrated with joy and happiness. Yet, this joyous occasion was met with a bitter reality - a penalty on our vital benefits solely because we chose to marry. It’s disheartening to know that in today’s America, disabled adults like me must choose between love and the financial stability that we desperately rely upon.
When I decided to marry, I was aware of the potential financial consequences but never imagined the profound impact it would have on our lives. Not only are we restricted by a limit of $3,000 in our total accounts, but we also face the heartbreaking reality that any inheritance from my father’s 40+ years of contributions into the Social Security Administration could be unfairly taken away from us. This is not merely unjust – it is an unacceptable punishment to those who already face daily challenges due to their disabilities.
The current system essentially penalizes the act of marrying for love, forcing disabled adults to make an agonizing choice between financial security and personal happiness. This hardship resonates with countless others who are trying to lead fulfilling lives, yet are bound by outdated and punitive policies.
It’s time for Congress to listen to our voices and make real change. H.R. 1389 proposes eliminating the marriage penalty for adults with disabilities who rely on benefits such as SSI. This bill acknowledges the simple truth that love should not be penalized and that everyone deserves the right to marry without fear of losing critical assistance.
We urge our representatives to pass H.R. 1389 and embrace a vision of fairness and inclusivity. Inaction not only perpetuates the injustice faced by many but also disregards the basic rights of individuals to lead dignified and autonomous lives.
Please join us in calling for a change. Let love prevail, let fairness and justice thrive. Sign this petition to support the passing of H.R. 1389 and end the marriage penalty for disabled adults in America. Together, we can make a difference for hundreds of thousands of families who deserve better.
Petition Updates
Share this petition
Petition created on September 19, 2026