I don't believe that this is accurate. JonLaw can correct me here if I am wrong, but as far as I know, once you are deemed eligible for SSI, the only factor in determining your benefit amount is your income and assets. A lot of people are shocked to find that the maximum benefit is less than $700/month, though.
There are sometimes state programs that piggy-back on federal SSI. That's the only way to get over $670 or whatever it is now. It just went up a little. I don't know how Mass. works with respect to the piggyback.
SSI also has deductions if you are received free housing/support. That knocks off a third and you get down into the $400s.
And, since it's welfare, you can't have over $2000 in the bank or you lose the SSI. You can, however, own a single vehicle and the house that you live in.
