MSA: The Basics

Minnesota Supplemental Aid (MSA) is a program that gives an additional cash benefit to people who are aged, blind, or disabled and are either getting Supplemental Security Income (SSI), or would be eligible for SSI except that they have too much income. MSA gives a monthly benefit on top of (or as a supplement to) SSI. Most people who get SSI also get a monthly MSA benefit. If you do not get SSI, then your income must be within certain income guidelines in order to qualify for MSA.

The amount of your MSA monthly benefit depends on your living situation and expenses. For example, you may qualify for extra assistance if you have a special diet, prescribed by a doctor. A person living alone and getting SSI will usually qualify for a MSA benefit of $81. Some people will get more MSA each month, depending on their individual circumstances and expenses.

If a person qualifies for MSA, they will also qualify for Medical Assistance (MA) and for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Because of this, it may be a good idea to find out if you qualify for MSA.

To find out if you qualify for MSA, apply at your local county human services agency .