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Understanding Reverse Mortgages and Supplemental Security Income

Understanding Reverse Mortgages and Supplemental Security Income

Reverse mortgages and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are two financial tools that can provide significant support to seniors during their retirement years. However, understanding the connections between these two financial options is crucial before you decide how to proceed. Here, we will explore the relationship between a reverse mortgage and SSI and provide you with tips to ensure you are making a well-informed choice that suits your family's long-term needs.

How a Reverse Mortgage Can Impact Supplemental Security Income

Reverse mortgages allow homeowners age 55 or older to convert a portion of their home's equity into cash, which can be received as a lump sum, line of credit, or regular payments. While reverse mortgages do not affect eligibility for SSI directly, the cash proceeds received can have an indirect impact.

When the funds from a reverse mortgage are kept in a homeowner's bank account, they are considered a "countable resource" by the Social Security Administration (SSA). If the total value of the resources exceeds the SSI threshold -- $2,000 for individuals, $3,000 for married couples -- it can result in a reduction or loss of SSI benefits.

This, in turn, can have an adverse effect on a homeowner's overall financial plan for retirement.

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Credit: jayk7/Getty Images

Strategies For Minimizing the Impact

Fortunately, there are strategies to minimize the impact of a reverse mortgage on SSI if you think you might be impacted. You'll learn more about some of these tactics below. A reverse mortgage specialist can assist you with figuring out exactly what methods will work best in your situation.

Spend the Money: Utilize the funds from the reverse mortgage for eligible major expenses, such as home repairs and renovation, medical bills, or debt repayment. The implementing this strategy, you can reduce your countable resources and avoid any potential negative impact on your SSI eligibility.

Establish a Trust: Placing your reverse mortgage proceeds into a trust can exclude them from being counted as a resource. This option requires careful planning and advice from an estate attorney or financial advisor, however, so don't go it alone. Your reverse mortgage lender may be able to recommend a trusted local expert.

Timing: Consider the timing of your reverse mortgage application. If you need immediate funds but are not yet receiving SSI, taking out the loan before applying for SSI can help preserve your benefits. Again, it is best to work with a reverse mortgage specialist or financial planner to determine if this path could be right for you while remaining compliant with all applicable laws.

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Credit: Hero Images Inc./Getty Images

Frequently Asked Questions

Senior homeowners who are thinking about taking out reverse mortgages often have questions about how it could impact their governmental Supplemental Security Income. Get answers to some frequently asked questions below and, remember, your reverse mortgage lender is always there to assist you as well!

Can I lose my SSI benefits if I have a reverse mortgage?

Answer: Having a reverse mortgage does not itself impact SSI benefits. However, as noted earlier in this article, the funds received may impact your SSI eligibility if they cause your countable resources to exceed the allowable limits.

Can I use reverse mortgage proceeds to pay off debts?

Answer: Yes, using the funds to pay off debts is a valid way to spend the reverse mortgage proceeds and reduce countable resources for SSI purposes.

Should I apply for SSI before or after getting a reverse mortgage?

Answer: It is generally advisable to apply for SSI after obtaining a reverse mortgage to avoid including the loan proceeds in your countable resources. If you've already applied, though, you can talk to a reverse mortgage expert about your options.

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Credit: designer491/Getty Images

Reverse mortgages can provide valuable financial support for retirees, but it's essential to understand their potential impact on Supplemental Security Income. Remember to carefully assess your needs, understand the terms of your specific loan, and consider alternative options before committing to a reverse mortgage.

The Watermark Capital team is here to look at your personal situation and help you every step of the way.
If you would like to reach out to David for a complimentary consultation, call today at (866) 502-8339.  

Feature Image Credit: pixdeluxe/Getty Images

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David Gittelson

David Gittelson

Reverse Mortgage Advisors David Gittelson (Reverse Mortgage Specialist NMLS 224312) started his career in the lending and finance industry in 2001 and has supported close to two billion in transactions through hundreds of trusted professionals. In the early 2000's David used Reverse Mortgages to support his client's cash management and retirement strategies in collaboration with the client’s tax and financial advisers and continues today with even better products and solutions to support trusted advisers whose clients are fifty-five years and older.

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