Every year, thousands of Americans decide to take a long trip or move abroad. However, many are unaware that the SSA has strict rules about how long you can be outside the country without affecting your benefits. If you receive monthly payments from Social Security, such as SSI or SSDI, it's crucial that you know these rules.
SSA Warning About Prolonged Absences: Be Very Careful
The SSA considers you to be outside the United States if you are not in the 50 states. Nor in Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, the Virgin Islands, American Samoa, or the Northern Mariana Islands for at least 30 consecutive days. If you are absent for that period, you could temporarily lose the right to receive certain benefits.
- SSI (Supplemental Security Income): This benefit is suspended if you are outside the US for 30 consecutive days. To resume payments, you must return and stay in the country for 30 consecutive days.
- SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance): US citizens can continue receiving SSDI abroad, except in countries like Cuba or North Korea. However, if you are not a citizen, the rules may vary depending on agreements between the US and other countries.
If you have been outside for more than 30 consecutive days, you must return and stay in the US for 30 days for your benefits to resume. This means being physically present in the country for 24 hours each day, without leaving for even a single day.
Are There Exceptions?
Yes, there are some exceptions: children with parents in military service. If a child lives outside the US with a parent who is on active military duty, they can continue receiving SSI. Additionally, students temporarily studying outside the country, sponsored by a US educational institution, may also be eligible.
US Government's Version on This Decisive Measure
The US Government emphasizes the importance of reporting any change in your situation that may affect your benefits. Additionally, it offers an online tool called "Payments Abroad Screening Tool" to help you determine if you can continue receiving payments while abroad.
If you are planning a long trip or moving outside the United States, it's essential that you understand how this can affect your Social Security benefits. The rules are clear: prolonged absences can suspend your payments, and they will only resume if you meet the established requirements. To avoid surprises, be well-informed and use the tools offered by the SSA.