Story perspectives

SSA Unveils SSI Overhaul as Improper Payments Hit $6.35B

7/28/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Social Security Administration announced on July 24 2026 major SSI improvements.
Commissioner Frank J. Bisignano formed an SSI Improvement Team in September 2025, appointed the agency’s first lead executive, and achieved monthly operation of the Payroll Information Exchange (PIE).
Improper payment rates rose from 9.41 % in FY 2019 to 10.62 % in FY 2024, costing $6.35 billion, while SSI serves over 7 million beneficiaries with a 2026 maximum benefit of $994 for individuals and $1,491 for couples.

History

Historical Context

The Social Security Act, signed by President Franklin D. Roosevelt on August 14 1935, created a federal retirement insurance program administered by the Social Security Board, renamed the Social Security Administration in 1946. After the first monthly check of $22.54 was issued to Ida May Fuller in 1940, the agency added SSI in 1972 and now confronts large-scale improper-payment challenges.

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Story summary

The Social Security Administration announced on July 24 2026 major SSI improvements.
Commissioner Frank J. Bisignano formed an SSI Improvement Team in September 2025, appointed the agency’s first lead executive, and achieved monthly operation of the Payroll Information Exchange (PIE).
Improper payment rates rose from 9.41 % in FY 2019 to 10.62 % in FY 2024, costing $6.35 billion, while SSI serves over 7 million beneficiaries with a 2026 maximum benefit of $994 for individuals and $1,491 for couples.

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