Moving

1. Notifying the Social Security Administration (SSA)

If you're moving, it's crucial to notify the SSA as soon as possible. You can update your address and contact information online or by contacting the SSA directly. Keeping the SSA informed ensures that:

• You continue to receive important notices and correspondence.
• Your benefits are delivered to the correct location.
• Any potential changes to your benefits are handled appropriately.

You can update your address by:

• Logging into your mySocialSecurity account.
• Calling the SSA at 1-800-772-1213.

2. Impact on Benefits (SSDI vs. SSI)

Whether you receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) may determine how your move affects your benefits.

• SSDI Recipients: If you are receiving SSDI, your benefits will generally remain the same regardless of where you move in the U.S. SSDI is based on your work history and disability, so it does not change from state to state.
• SSI Recipients: If you receive SSI, moving to a different state can impact your benefits. SSI payments are determined by federal guidelines, but many states supplement SSI payments. Moving to a new state may change the amount of the state supplement or remove it entirely. Be sure to check the new state’s regulations to understand how your SSI payments may be affected.

3. Medicare and Medicaid Considerations

Your healthcare coverage may also change depending on whether you receive Medicare or Medicaid.

• Medicare: If you receive SSDI and are eligible for Medicare, your Medicare coverage remains unchanged when moving within the U.S. Make sure to notify Medicare of your new address, but your benefits will not be affected.
• Medicaid: If you are on Medicaid through SSI, your coverage may change when moving to a new state. Medicaid is administered by individual states, and each state has different eligibility requirements and coverage options. You will need to apply for Medicaid in your new state of residence and ensure that you meet the new state’s criteria.

4. Moving Within the Same State

If you're moving to a new home within the same state, the impact on your benefits is minimal. However, it’s still important to:

• Update your address with the SSA to ensure that any correspondence, including Continuing Disability Reviews (CDR) notifications, reaches you.
• Check with your Medicaid provider if applicable, as some regions may have different healthcare networks or service providers.

5. Moving to a Different State

When moving to a new state, consider the following:

• SSI Payments: As mentioned, SSI payments may be affected by the state’s supplement policies. Some states offer a higher state supplement, while others offer none at all.
• Healthcare: You’ll need to reapply for Medicaid in the new state if you qualify for SSI. Ensure you understand the new state’s Medicaid rules and how they may differ from your current coverage.

You should also research local resources, including free clinics and assistance programs, that can help with your healthcare needs after the move.

6. Moving Internationally

If you're considering moving outside the U.S., the impact on your benefits will depend on the type of benefits you receive:

• SSDI Recipients: In most cases, SSDI benefits can continue even if you move to another country, although there are some exceptions. You will need to inform the SSA of your international move, and they will provide guidance based on the country you are moving to.
• SSI Recipients: If you receive SSI, your benefits will stop if you leave the U.S. for more than 30 consecutive days. SSI is only available to those residing in the U.S. and certain U.S. territories. If you plan to move abroad, your SSI payments will cease.

If you do plan to move internationally, make sure to contact the SSA well in advance to understand the specific rules for your situation.

7. Accessing Local Services and Resources

When moving to a new area, it’s helpful to connect with local resources that may assist you with healthcare, financial planning, or general support. Here are a few steps you can take:

• Locate healthcare providers: Ensure you have access to healthcare services in your new area, particularly if you have ongoing medical needs related to your disability.
• Research local Social Security offices: Find the nearest Social Security office, which can help you with any in-person inquiries about your benefits.
• Look for state-specific assistance programs: Some states offer additional financial aid, housing assistance, or disability services that can help support your transition.

8. Reporting Additional Changes

In addition to notifying the SSA of your move, there are other changes that must be reported to ensure you remain eligible for benefits, such as:

• Changes in household composition: If you marry, divorce, or someone moves in or out of your household, this may affect your benefits, particularly for SSI recipients.
• Work status: If you begin working after your move or your income changes, report these changes to the SSA.

Failure to report these changes could result in overpayments or a loss of benefits.

Conclusion

Moving while receiving Social Security Disability benefits involves a few critical steps, such as notifying the SSA and understanding how your move may affect your benefits and healthcare coverage. Whether you’re moving within the same state, to a new state, or internationally, staying informed and proactive will ensure a smooth transition and continuation of your benefits.