Page Reviewed / Updated – March 3, 2023

Program Description

Rhode Island’s SSI Enhanced Assisted Living Program provides financial assistance to individuals who are eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and have been professionally assessed and determined to require the level of care typically provided in assisted living communities. However, their care needs cannot be so severe that nursing home care is required.

This program provides an increase in the Supplemental Security Income benefit amount, specifically to help cover the cost of assisted living room and board costs.

The program is administered by the Rhode Island Department of Human Services, Office of Healthy Aging. Rhode Island Department of Health is responsible for the licensing and approval of assisted living communities.

Eligibility Guidelines

The Assisted Living Program has several areas of eligibility consideration.

General Requirements

Age: Applicants must be at least 65 years of age. Younger adult applicants will be considered only if they have a disability.

Residency: Applicants must be legal Rhode Island residents. The length of time for which one has been a Rhode Island resident is not a factor in eligibility.

Functional Ability: Applicants must require assisted living care, but cannot require the level of care provided in a skilled nursing community.

Financial Requirements

Income Limits

In 2023, the maximum monthly income limit for a single applicant is $1,212 per month. Calculated annually, this means the applicant’s income must be less than $14,544 a year.

Asset Limits

The total value of the applicant’s countable assets (minus exempt items, such as one’s home, personal effects, and a vehicle) cannot exceed $2,000. Life insurance policies with a face value greater than $1,500 are considered a countable asset.

Benefits and Services

This program helps pay for assisted living costs by increasing the applicant’s monthly SSI payment.

In assisted living, the staff provides assistance with the activities of daily living, congregate meals, medication oversight, transportation assistance and social activities.

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How to Apply / Learn More

For more information or to apply for this program, call Rhode Island’s Aging and Disability Resource Center, The Point, at 401-462-4444. One can also download the necessary forms from the SSI Enhanced Assisted Living Program website.

Please make note, if an applicant has not already done so, he or she will be required to apply for Supplemental Security Income during the application process.