(Washington, DC) Today, Congressman John Yarmuth (KY-3) wants Louisvillians to know the federal government will send out $250 economic recovery payments to people who receive Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits beginning in early May 2009 and continuing throughout the month.  No action is required to get the payment, which will be sent separately from the person’s regular monthly payment.

“These payments will provide much-needed help for Louisville seniors and disabled individuals to help make ends meet during the recession,” Congressman Yarmuth said.  “With $13 billion going to 50 million Americans, these payments will provide a necessary injection of capital into the economy.  I commend the Social Security Administration and Commissioner Michael Astrue for coordinating these payments so efficiently.”

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.  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.  People getting Social Security or SSI should not contact the agency unless a payment is not received by June 4, 2009.

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

To learn more about the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, go to www.recovery.gov.