DOH Issues Long Awaited SSI Cost of Living Adjustment Letter

The Department of Health (DOH) issued their annual notice regarding the Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for people receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) that reside in Adult Care Facilities (ACFs). Click here to view the Dear Administrator letter (DAL) and here for the Notice to Residents document regarding the 1.7 percent increase, effective Jan 1, 2015.

We know that some members have been waiting for this letter, in order to meet the regulatory notice requirements. We have been raising this timing concern with DOH, and they have addressed how you can implement the change Jan.1, without having already given notice:

“If you intend to increase the rate you charge residents, you are required to give residents a written notice specifying the new rate at least 30 days prior to the date of the increase. In addition, Assisted Living Residences (ALRs) must provide 45 days notice before increasing the rate for residents who receive SSI. The operator may increase the rate with less than the 30 day notice (45 days for ALRs) if the resident voluntarily agrees to such a rate increase in writing. In either case, you are required to amend the admission/residency agreement.”

Please review the DAL carefully to ensure that you are meeting all of the related requirements. If you have questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Contact: Diane Darbyshire, ddarbyshire@leadingageny.org, 518-867-8828