Beyond Social Security: How Government Programs Help Retirees Make Ends Meet
- Author: Muriel Robel
- Posted: 2025-02-04
For millions of low-income retirees in the U.S., government benefits like Social Security, SNAP, and Medicaid are lifelines.
These programs help cover essentials like food, housing, and healthcare.
But many older Americans find themselves in a tough spot—earning just enough to disqualify them from benefits yet still struggling to afford daily expenses.
If you are struggling to navigate these benefits, there's a helping hand waiting for you. Click here.
Why Are So Many Retirees Relying on Benefits?
The rising cost of healthcare, food, and housing has made it harder for older adults to get by on Social Security alone.
In 2022, government assistance made up 18% of all personal income in the U.S.—totaling $3.8 trillion.
Programs like Medicaid and SNAP are meant to bridge the gap, but strict income limits can make things complicated.
The federal poverty threshold is currently $15,650 per year for an individual, but it doesn’t account for higher living costs in different states.
Many retirees earn just enough to miss the cutoff for aid but still can’t afford basic necessities.
The Catch-22 of Benefits
Retirees depend on Social Security and SNAP to support their families, but even small income changes—like a cost-of-living increase—can reduce or eliminate their benefits.
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Some safety net programs also have strict asset limits, meaning retirees can’t save too much money without risking their benefits.
Programs like SSI limit assets to $2,000, including savings and certain personal property.
Other benefits, like SNAP, have work requirements and income caps, making it difficult for retirees to earn extra income without losing assistance.
Should Retirees Consider Going Back to Work?
For some retirees, reentering the workforce is a way to boost income and financial security.
Unlike Medicaid and SNAP, Social Security doesn’t penalize beneficiaries for working—you can have a job and still receive benefits.
Read: What Seniors Need to Know About Medicare Premium Increases for 2025
Experts suggest that even part-time work can help retirees stretch their savings longer and reduce dependency on government aid.
However, many older job seekers worry about whether they’ll be hired after years away from the workforce.
What Can Retirees Do?
- Check eligibility for benefits regularly—Rules and income limits change, so stay informed.
- Use state and federal resources—Organizations can help navigate Medicaid, SNAP, and other programs.
- Consider part-time work [only if you can]—Extra income can provide stability, but be aware of how it may affect benefits.
Government aid is a critical support system for retirees, and the system isn’t always easy to navigate.
Understanding how benefits work, when to apply, and how income affects eligibility can make a big difference in financial security during retirement.
We are here to help you in every way.
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