Legal Definitions - in-kind support and maintenance (ISM)

In-kind support and maintenance (ISM) refers to non-cash assistance an individual receives for their fundamental needs, specifically food and shelter. Although no money is exchanged, the value of this support is considered a form of "income" by certain government benefit programs, most notably Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

The concept of ISM is crucial because it directly impacts the amount of cash benefits an individual may receive. If someone is getting help with their housing or food expenses, the government program may reduce their cash payment, assuming their financial need is partially met by this non-cash support. This assistance can come from any source, including family members, friends, or charitable organizations, regardless of whether they live in the same household as the recipient.

Here are some examples illustrating in-kind support and maintenance:

• Example 1: Free Housing from a Family Member

  Maria, who receives SSI benefits, lives in a spare room at her sister's house. Maria does not pay rent or contribute to the household's utility bills. Her sister covers all these costs.

  How it illustrates ISM: Maria is receiving free shelter, which is a basic need. The value of this free housing is considered in-kind support and maintenance. Even though she doesn't receive cash from her sister, the government benefit program will assess the monetary value of this housing support and may reduce her monthly SSI payment accordingly.

• Example 2: Regular Grocery Deliveries from a Friend

  David, who is unable to leave his home due to a disability and receives SSI, has a friend who regularly brings him bags of groceries, ensuring his refrigerator and pantry are stocked. David does not pay for these groceries.

  How it illustrates ISM: David is receiving consistent help with his food expenses, a fundamental need. The value of these groceries, provided without charge by his friend, constitutes in-kind support and maintenance. This non-cash assistance for food would be factored into the calculation of his SSI benefits, potentially leading to a reduction in his cash payment.

• Example 3: Temporary Shelter and Meals from a Community Program

  Sarah, an SSI recipient experiencing homelessness, stays for several weeks at a local community shelter that provides her with a bed, toiletries, and three meals a day, all free of charge.

  How it illustrates ISM: Sarah is receiving both shelter and food, which are essential living expenses, from the community program without having to pay. The combined value of this temporary housing and daily meals is considered in-kind support and maintenance. This support would be taken into account by the SSI program when determining her cash benefit amount for the period she received these services.