Does social security pay for assisted living?
June 27, 2025
Assisted living offers a safe and supportive environment for seniors who need help with daily activities, but the cost can be a major concern for families. With monthly expenses ranging from $3,000 to $6,000 or more, many wonder: Does Social Security pay for assisted living? The answer isn't simple—but understanding how Social Security works and what financial resources are available can help families plan more effectively.
Understanding Social Security Benefits
Social Security is a federal program that provides income to qualifying individuals, primarily through:
- Retirement benefits, based on a person’s work history.
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), for individuals with disabilities.
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI), a needs-based program for low-income seniors and people with disabilities.
While these benefits provide important financial support, they are not specifically designed to cover the full cost of long-term care services like assisted living.
Can Social Security Cover Assisted Living Costs?
In short, Social Security can help pay for assisted living—but it usually isn't enough to cover the full expense. In 2024, the average Social Security retirement benefit is around $1,900 per month. Meanwhile, assisted living costs often exceed $4,000 per month, depending on the location and level of care required.
That means many seniors must rely on a combination of Social Security and other income sources—like pensions, savings, or support from family—to afford quality care.
At Sparkling Fountain Homes in Overland Park, KS, we understand how important affordability is. Our smaller, more personalized environment allows us to offer a higher level of attention at a more accessible price point than many large corporate facilities.
What About Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?
For seniors with limited income and resources, SSI may offer additional financial help. However, SSI benefits are modest—maxing out at around $943 per month for individuals in 2024. Some states provide supplemental payments to help SSI recipients afford assisted living, but these programs vary widely and often have strict eligibility requirements.
In Kansas, assisted living costs typically exceed what SSI covers, and the state has limited support for using SSI toward room and board in these settings. It’s important to check with a local aging services office or financial planner to understand what options may be available in your area.
Other Ways to Pay for Assisted Living
While Social Security alone may not be enough, there are other resources to consider:
- Veterans Benefits: Qualifying veterans may receive Aid and Attendance benefits to help with the cost of assisted living.
- Medicaid Waivers: Kansas offers Medicaid waiver programs that may help cover some assisted living services, but not room and board.
- Long-Term Care Insurance: These policies, if purchased in advance, can help cover assisted living expenses.
- Personal Assets: Savings, home equity, or contributions from family members are often part of the payment strategy.
How Sparkling Fountain Homes Can Help
At Sparkling Fountain Homes, we know how overwhelming senior care planning can be. Our experienced team works with families to answer questions about care costs, payment options, and how to make the most of available resources—including Social Security benefits.
Because we are a smaller, locally owned assisted living facility, we can provide customized care plans that balance affordability and quality. With home-cooked meals, engaging daily activities, and a compassionate team, we help seniors live comfortably and with dignity.
While Social Security benefits provide essential financial support, they typically aren’t enough to pay for assisted living on their own. Most families use a mix of Social Security, savings, and other resources to afford quality care.
If you're planning for assisted living in Overland Park, KS, Sparkling Fountain Homes is here to help. Contact us today to discuss your loved one’s needs and learn more about our personalized, affordable care options.
