The Social Security Administration (SSA) announced updates to its program policy instructions regarding pandemic-related disaster assistance. Effective August 21, 2026, the SSA will eliminate the need for continued special development of pandemic-related assistance.
This change means income and resource development for any new allegations will revert to normal disaster assistance procedures. The updates affect Program Operations Manual System sections SI 00830 TN 283 and SI 01130 TN 140.