Moving abroad can be an exciting adventure, but it also raises important questions about your financial security, particularly regarding Social Security benefits. Whether you are receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), understanding how moving abroad affects these benefits is crucial for planning your future.
## Understanding SSDI and SSI
SSDI and SSI are two different types of benefits provided by the U.S. Social Security Administration. SSDI is designed for individuals who have worked and paid Social Security taxes but are now unable to work due to a disability. SSI, on the other hand, is a needs-based program for people with disabilities, blindness, or age who have limited income and resources.
## Impact of Moving Abroad on SSDI
If you are receiving SSDI and plan to move abroad, you can generally continue to receive your benefits in most countries. However, there are a few exceptions. Countries like Cuba and North Korea do not allow U.S. Social Security payments. Additionally, if you stay outside the U.S. for more than six months, your benefits may be suspended, but they can resume once you return to the U.S.
It’s important to check the Social Security Administration’s Payment Abroad Tool to confirm whether your destination country allows SSDI payments. You do not need to report short trips to the SSA, but if you plan to be abroad for more than six months, it’s advisable to notify them.
## Impact of Moving Abroad on SSI
For SSI recipients, the rules are stricter. If you leave the U.S. for more than 30 days, your SSI benefits will stop. To restart your benefits, you must return to the U.S. and meet the eligibility requirements again. You need to report any travel outside the U.S. that lasts more than 30 days to the SSA.
## Earning Social Security Credits Abroad
If you are working abroad and want to continue earning Social Security credits, it depends on your employment situation. You can earn credits if you work for a U.S. employer or are self-employed and pay U.S. Social Security taxes. However, if you work for a foreign employer without paying U.S. Social Security taxes, you generally do not earn credits.
## Totalization Agreements
The U.S. has Totalization Agreements with several countries, which can help you combine work credits from different countries to qualify for benefits. These agreements are particularly useful for expats who have worked in multiple countries.
## Conclusion
Moving abroad while receiving Social Security benefits requires careful planning. Understanding the rules for SSDI and SSI, as well as how to earn credits abroad, can help ensure that your financial security is maintained. Always check with the SSA before making any significant changes to your living situation to avoid any disruptions in your benefits.
