Learn about Massachusetts State Supplement Program eligibility and payments

State Supplement Program (SSP) eligibility requirements, information about payment categories, rates, and methods

The State Supplement Program (SSP) provides monthly cash payments to eligible seniors and people with disabilities. This page explains who qualifies, how much you may receive, and how payments are delivered.

Who is eligible?

SSP eligibility is based on Supplemental Security Income (SSI) eligibility. To get SSP, you must first apply for SSI through the Social Security Administration (SSA).

• You do not have to receive an SSI payment to get SSP. If your income is too high for SSI, you may still qualify for SSP.
• Your SSP payment amount depends on your income and your living arrangement.

How much will I receive?

SSP payments depend on your category (aged, blind, or disabled), whether you are an individual or a spouse, and your living arrangement.

How and when are payments sent?

• Method: You’ll receive SSP the same way you receive SSI: by check or direct deposit.
• Schedule: SSP follows the federal SSI payment schedule (PDF), generally the first of the month.
• If you get both: You’ll receive two separate payments, one from SSA (SSI) and one from the state (SSP).

Cashing your SSP check

• Bring two forms of identification to any M&T Bank location.
• You do not need an M&T Bank account to cash your check.