Social Security In-Kind Support and Maintenance

Understanding Presumed Maximum Value (PMV) and one-third reduction (VTR)

Many retired and disabled individuals in the United States rely on Social Security for some or all of their income. While many are familiar with what benefits are available, they often don’t know there are additional rules and guidelines that determine eligibility.

One consideration is In-Kind Support and Maintenance (ISM), which involves assistance received by beneficiaries. This article aims to explain the Presumed Maximum Value (PMV) and one-third reduction (VTR) rules. This will provide you with a clearer understanding of how these regulations affect Social Security recipients.

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In-Kind Support and Maintenance refers to assistance provided to individuals, helping them meet their basic needs. This includes food*, shelter, or utilities provided by someone other than the Social Security beneficiary. These sources of support are taken into account when applying for or receiving Social Security benefits. This is to ensure that cash benefits reach those with genuine financial needs. Both monetary aid and in-kind support are considered to determine the level of assistance individuals receive.

*The Social Security Administration has proposed a new rule to remove food from the ISM consideration. If approved, it would mean SSI applicants and recipients would no longer have to report their food expenses. Comments on this proposed rule closed on 17 April 2023. Please follow this link if you would like to read the proposed rule in full. This has NOT been approved yet.