Washington, DC—Wednesday, the New Mexico Congressional delegation announced that approximately $87.12 million in funding from the Economic Recovery Package will go to seniors, veterans and railroad retirees in New Mexico.

The Economic Recovery Package provides for a $250 economic recovery payment to be made to Social Security, Railroad Retirement, Veterans Disability, and Supplemental Security Income beneficiaries.

“Providing a $250 boost to nearly 300,000 New Mexicans will enable them to pay for essentials which, in turn, will pump millions into New Mexico’s economy,” Sen. Bingaman said.  “It’s exactly the kind of help and stimulus that the economic recovery package was intended to deliver.”

“This money will help New Mexico meet our obligation to care for our veterans, for the disabled, and for our senior citizens,” said Sen. Udall.  “In the process, it will inject resources into our communities so that we can create more jobs and get our economy going again.”

“New Mexicans living on fixed incomes and with disabilities have been hit especially hard by this economic crisis,” said Rep. Teague.  "The $30 million coming to southern New Mexico will make a big difference in the lives of seniors, veterans, and people with disabilities, and will help revitalize our local economies.”

“Retirees struggling to stay afloat will have a bit of relief this month,” said Rep. Heinrich.  “The current economic crisis adds urgency to helping some of our most vulnerable constituents – seniors and veterans – meet their basic needs.”

“This payment will help many who have struggling during this economic time make ends meet,” said Rep. Lujan. “The $250 payment to seniors and those with disabilities will help them pay for daily goods and put money into our communities.”

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 provides for a one-time payment of $250 to adult Social Security beneficiaries and to SSI recipients, except those receiving Medicaid in care facilities. Current beneficiaries do not need to take any action; payments will be automatically mailed or deposited into their accounts. To receive the payment the individual must be eligible for Social Security or SSI during the months of November 2008, December 2008 or January 2009.

The legislation also provides for a one-time payment to Veterans Affairs (VA) and Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) beneficiaries. The VA and RRB will be responsible for paying individuals under their respective programs. However, if someone receives Social Security and SSI, VA or RRB benefits, he or she will receive only one $250 payment.

For more detailed information about the $250 one-time economic recovery payments, go to http://www.socialsecurity.gov/payment/

New Mexico Beneficiary Statistics: