Although these facilities are state run, they do not meet the definition of an institution
for SSI purposes (SI 00520.001.B.2.) because food is not provided. For this reason, the individuals who are residing
in these facilities may establish eligibility for SSI payments if all other SSI program
criteria are met (i.e., N22/N02 is not appropriate).
Many of the residents in the program pay a nominal “rent.” In recent times, it is
not uncommon for prisons to charge inmates a nominal fee to "reimburse" for the costs
incurred by the taxpayers. For SSI purposes, under no circumstances would this type
of charge, even if it is called a “rent” payment, be characterized as a rental agreement
nor as representing a landlord/tenant relationship between the individual and the
Bureau of Community Corrections (BCC).
Contact with the BCC has confirmed that the value of the shelter provided exceeds
the presumed maximum value (PMV). Therefore, the shelter is correctly valued using
the PMV. This value will be verified with the BCC at each cost-of-living increase.