I work with people with disabilities and they receive SSI and/or Social Security Benefits. They are obligated to pay a percentage of their income towards rent. Most of them do; however, we have a handful that will not. Some of them receive bulk payments and will not pay back rent. Can I lien their SSI/SS payments?

I work with people with disabilities and they receive SSI and/or Social Security Benefits. They are obligated to pay a percentage of their income towards rent. Most of them do; however, we have a handful that will not. Some of them receive bulk payments and will not pay back rent. Can I lein their SSI/SS payments?


SSI/SS can be liened for certain and very specific things - child support, spousal support, Government taxes, student loans - and not for personal debt.

Did you read the exchange on the other thread where you posted this?

"I evicted my tenants for non payment of rents. A judgement was issued in my favor to pay the remaining rent. The tenant is now absconding, but has a social security account. How can I put a lien on it"

Answer by AKLawyer - "You can't."

There's really little difference between the two questions.

Are they in HUD housing? Usually the rent money comes off the top of the SSI check. What is the setup? How else does the rent get paid?

Are they in HUD housing? Usually the rent money comes off the top of the SSI check. What is the setup? How else does the rent get paid?


My experience with HUD Housing - and similar programs - is that tenant signs a letter "agreeing" to pay past due rent when benefits are awarded, copy to Attorney if one is involved.

Then it's sort of the honor system - pay or be evicted.