WHAT’S NEW FOR 2008?

We increased the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) amount for individuals with disabilities, other than blindness, from $900 to $940 for 2008. 

We increased the SGA amount for individuals who are blind from $1,500 to $1,570 for 2008.

We increased the monthly earnings amount that we use to determine if a month counts for the Trial Work Period (TWP) from $640 to $670 for 2008. 

For 2008, we increased the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Federal Benefit Rates (FBR) from $623 to $637 for an eligible individual and from $934 to $956 for an eligible couple. 

We increased the income amounts that will have no effect on eligibility or benefits for SSI beneficiaries who are students.  For 2008, we increased the monthly amount from $1,510 to $1,550 and the yearly maximum from $6,100 to $6,240. 

For 2008, the monthly Medicare Part A Hospital Insurance Base Premium is $423, and the 45 percent Reduced Premium is $233.  The Part B Supplementary Medical Insurance monthly Base Premium is $96.40.