Minnesota Supplemental Aid (MSA)
Minnesota Supplemental Aid (MSA) provides cash assistance to help adults who get Supplemental Security Income (SSI) pay for their basic needs. Some people who are blind, have a disability or are older than 65 but do not get SSI because their other income is too high may also be eligible for MSA if they meet the income limit.
People who get MSA are also eligible for help with medical, food and housing costs through Medical Assistance (MA), the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and MSA Housing Assistance programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can individuals who are homeless get Minnesota Supplemental Aid (MSA)?
Yes, but they must meet eligibility requirements. Homelessness is not a basis of eligibility on its own. If the person is applying for MSA Housing Assistance, they would be considered a household of one. Individuals receiving GRH in a homeless shelter cannot receive MSA at the same time, but could be eligible if they move into their own home.
If a person’s Supplemental Security Income (SSI) ends due to the recipient being over the asset limit, are they still eligible for Minnesota Supplemental Aid (MSA)?
No, determine if eligible for General Assistance (GA).
If a person’s Supplemental Security Income (SSI) ends due to the recipient being over the income limit due to earnings from work, are they still eligible for Minnesota Supplemental Aid (MSA)?
Maybe, determine the recipient’s income using the $65 and ½ earned income disregard for MSA. The recipient’s gross income must be less than 300% of the Federal Benefit Rate (FBR) ($2205, effective 1/1/17), and their counted income must be less than the MSA assistance standard, based on their living arrangement. If the person is applying for or receiving MSA Housing Assistance, the living arrangement is always considered a household of one.
If an MSA recipient is on two special diets and the doctor indicates on the form that the diets overlap (same foods are purchased for both diets) does the financial worker allow both diets?
No, only the highest diet value is given. If the diet form your agency uses does not ask if the diets overlap, update it to include that question.
What utility deduction is used when determining eligibility for Minnesota Supplemental Aid (MSA) Housing Assistance?
Use the Standard Utility Deduction in the absence of the actual amount.
If a person is receiving subsidized rent, can they also receive Minnesota Supplemental Aid (MSA) Housing Assistance?
No, people with subsidized housing cannot receive MSA Housing Assistance.
Questions or Feedback?
Please email John Petroskas at john.petroskas@state.mn.us or call 651-431-5644.
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