Waiting for the Social Security Administration to approve your claim for benefits under the Social Security Disability Insurance program can be stressful. It is a big relief when you finally learn that you will receive the benefits you need. Like any other government program, the process is not exactly over at this point.
The SSA requires that you inform officials of certain changes throughout the life of your disability payments.
Some of the reporting requirements will not affect your benefits, like making sure the SSA has your correct address for mailing purposes if you move to a new house in Atlanta or to a new state. Others can affect your benefits, which is why you should not rely on this post as legal advice.
If you can answer yes to any of the following questions, you should consult with your disability attorney.
- Did you get a job? New income could affect your benefits, but a job will not result in the automatic and immediate suspension of benefits. You may be eligible for a trial work period. You may also continue receiving benefits after that period has ended and deduct from your income certain special work expenses related to your disability.
- Was there any change in disability benefits from other sources? Any new applications, approvals or cancellations could affect your SSD benefits, including workers’ compensation.
- Did you open a new bank account? If you are using direct deposit, you will need to update this information to ensure you receive your benefits – and on time.
- Can you no longer manage your own benefits? The SSA can send your benefits check to an individual acting as the conservator of your finances, called a “representative payee.”
- Did you get married or divorced? Any change in your marital status could affect your benefits, depending on the type of benefits and the circumstances of your case.
- Did you start receiving a pension other than Social Security retirement benefits? This new income could reduce your disability benefits.
- Did you have or adopt a child? If you became the parent of a child, your child may be eligible for benefits.
The SSA reserves the right to suspend your benefits if officials determine that you provided false information at any point, which is why honesty is always the best policy.
