To determine continuous Social Security benefits for homeownership in New York, verify the start and end dates of benefits using the Social Security Administration (SSA) record. Benefits are considered continuous if there are no gaps exceeding six months and no suspensions without重新申请 (reapplication). For example, a beneficiary who stopped receiving benefits for employment but later requalified without a gap longer than six months retains continuity. Additionally, partial suspensions (e.g., reduced payments) may disrupt continuity unless explicitly approved by the SSA. Homeownership programs like Section 8 or VA loans often require proof of continuous benefits, so reviewing the SSA’s "Continuation of Benefits" guidelines is critical.

The SSA defines continuity based on specific eligibility criteria to ensure long-term financial stability for beneficiaries. Data from the SSA shows that approximately 12% of retirement beneficiaries experienced gaps in benefits between 2020 and 2022 due to pandemic-related suspensions or rejections, potentially affecting their eligibility for housing assistance programs. For instance, New York State’s Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) requires continuous benefits for low-income applicants, and gaps exceeding six months may result in disqualification. Similarly, the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loans consider benefit continuity when assessing mortgage eligibility, as stable income streams are vital for approval. The SSA’s 2023 report noted that 85% of beneficiaries with uninterrupted benefits met homeownership program requirements, compared to 43% with gaps exceeding three months. Thus, maintaining continuous benefits is essential for accessing New York’s housing resources, as programs prioritize stability to mitigate financial risks for both applicants and lenders.