What does this measure?

The number of people receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI), per 1,000 residents.

Why is this important?

SSI benefits are intended to meet the basic economic needs of aged (65 and over), blind, and disabled persons with little or no income. This indicator is a measure of the number of needy individuals in the community beyond those who are receiving public assistance.

How is our county performing?

In 2019, there were 26 SSI recipients per 1,000 residents in Berks, less than the statewide rate of 28. The county's rate grew 70% between 2000 and 2019, while the state rate rose 20%; however, the county rate has remained consistently below the state rate over that timeframe.

Berks was slightly lower than Lehigh at 27 and similar to Schuylkill at 26. Lancaster, Lebanon and Montgomery had lower rates at 17, 19 and 11, respectively. Rates of SSI recipients were lowest in Chester at 8 per 1,000 residents.

Notes about the data

The data do not necessarily reflect the actual number of people eligible for SSI. To receive this benefit, people must apply and be deemed eligible. Data for this indicator are expected to be released in the third quarter.

There may be additional research available on this topic. Click on Reports and Resources to learn more.