Understanding In-Kind Support and Maintenance [ISM]: A Legal Overview

Q: How does ISM affect my SSI benefits?

The value of ISM is deducted from your SSI payment, reducing your monthly grant.

Q: Are there exemptions for ISM in my state?

Some states may have exemptions or different rules regarding ISM; it&#039;s best to check local regulations.

Definition & Meaning

In-kind support and maintenance (ISM) refers to non-cash assistance provided to individuals, such as food or shelter, that can impact their financial support from programs like Supplemental Security Income (SSI). The value of ISM is treated as income, meaning that an SSI recipient's monthly grant is reduced dollar for dollar by the total value of the ISM received, up to a specified limit. This type of support is also known as in-kind income.

Table of content

Legal Use & context

ISM is primarily relevant in the context of social security and public assistance programs. It is used in legal discussions surrounding eligibility for SSI and how various forms of support affect financial aid calculations. Legal practitioners may encounter ISM in civil law, particularly in cases involving welfare rights and benefits. Users can manage some aspects of ISM through legal forms and templates designed to address SSI applications and appeals.

Key legal elements

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

If a person receives $300 worth of food assistance in a month, their SSI payment will decrease by $300.
If a recipient lives rent-free in a friend's home, the fair market value of that housing may be considered ISM and reduce their SSI benefits accordingly. (hypothetical example)

State-by-state differences

Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):

State	ISM Treatment
California	Strictly regulates the value of ISM for SSI calculations.
Texas	Allows certain exemptions for ISM from SSI income calculations.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term	Definition	Difference
In-Kind Income	Support provided in non-cash form.	Essentially synonymous with ISM.
Cash Assistance	Direct financial aid provided to individuals.	Cash assistance is not considered ISM.

Common misunderstandings

What to do if this term applies to you

If you receive ISM, it is important to understand how it affects your SSI benefits. Keep track of the value of any in-kind support you receive. If you are unsure of how ISM impacts your situation, consider consulting a legal professional or using US Legal Forms' templates to help manage your SSI application or appeal process.

Find the legal form that fits your case

Browse our library of 85,000+ state-specific legal templates.

This field is required

Quick facts

ISM includes food, shelter, and other non-cash support.
Value of ISM reduces SSI benefits dollar for dollar.
Different states may have varying regulations regarding ISM.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

What is considered in-kind support?

In-kind support includes non-cash assistance like food, shelter, and other necessities.