Senate vs. House: The Senate bill offers a $6,000 tax deduction for seniors 65 and older who file taxes—but only if you make up to $75,000 as an individual or $150,000 as a couple. This means about 60% of seniors could see some relief, but 40%—especially those with low incomes who don’t file taxes—get nothing.

No Tax on Social Security: The much-promised “no tax on Social Security” benefit is not in the bill. Instead, the $6,000 tax deduction is offered, which helps fewer seniors than a full tax exemption would.

State and Local Tax Deduction: The cap for deducting state and local taxes has been raised from $10,000 to $40,000, benefiting homeowners in high-tax states.

Medicaid Work Requirements: The bill increases the work requirement age for Medicaid from 54 to 64 for able-bodied adults. There are exemptions for parents and people with disabilities.

Rural Hospitals: The bill lowers the Medicaid provider tax cap, threatening rural hospitals that rely on Medicaid patients. A $25 billion stabilization fund is proposed, but experts warn it may not be enough.

Medicare: While the bill does not directly cut Medicare, rising Part B premiums and out-of-pocket costs remain a concern for seniors.

Work Requirements: The bill increases the food stamp work requirement age from 54 to 64. If you’re under 64 and able-bodied, you’ll need to work at least 20 hours a week to qualify.

Cost Shifting: Starting in 2028, states will be responsible for 5–15% of food stamp costs, which could lead to reduced benefits or stricter eligibility in some states.

Minimum Benefit: The minimum SNAP benefit remains low ($23/month), and asset limits can disqualify seniors with modest savings.

Energy Costs: The bill phases out energy tax credits, leading to higher electricity prices in many states—up to 29% in some cases.

Budget Impact: To pay for tax cuts for higher earners, the bill takes money from Medicaid and food stamps, which could leave millions without coverage or food assistance.

Raises the minimum Social Security benefit to 125% of the federal poverty level, lifting many seniors out of poverty.

For example, a single senior making $15,650 or less is considered in poverty. This act would raise their minimum benefit to $19,560.

Gives every senior on Social Security or disability a $200/month increase—$2,400 more per year.

This would be a significant boost compared to the current small cost-of-living adjustments.

Raise the minimum food stamp benefit from $23 to $75/month.

Remove or increase asset limits so more seniors can qualify.

Guarantee a minimum 3.5% COLA for Social Security each year, protecting seniors against inflation.

Restore or increase funding for energy assistance programs to help seniors cope with rising utility bills.