Living abroad doesn't necessarily mean giving up your Social Security benefits. Many individuals wonder if they can still receive their Social Security payments if they move overseas. The answer may be more positive than you expect.

In this comprehensive article, we will delve into all the details, providing you with valuable insights and guidance on navigating Social Security benefits while residing outside the United States.

Eligibility Criteria for Overseas Social Security Benefits

When moving abroad, individuals often have concerns about maintaining their Social Security benefits. Fortunately, the Social Security Administration (SSA) allows eligible individuals to continue receiving benefits even if they relocate overseas. 

This is particularly important for retirees who may choose to spend their retirement years in another country or for individuals who move back to their home country after working in the United States.

If you've earned 40 credits contributing to the US Social Security system, you can continue to receive your Social Security retirement benefits while residing abroad. Similarly, if your spouse meets the requirement of five years of residency in the US, they can also receive spousal or survivor benefits while living abroad.

For example, if you're a citizen of India and meet the eligibility criteria, you can receive your Social Security retirement benefits even if you move back to India, regardless of whether India has signed a Totalization Agreement with the US. This is just one example, but it gives you an idea of what you should expect.

Maintaining open communication with the Social Security Administration can help mitigate any administrative hurdles that may arise during the transition process. This includes updating your contact information, reporting changes in your living arrangements, and staying informed about any updates or policy changes that may affect your benefits.

What to Know About SSDI Benefits Overseas

While survivor and retirement benefits are an important part of Social Security, you also need to know how Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits change when you live away from the United States. 

For those who get SSDI benefits, the rules are different from survivor and retirement benefits. You can keep SSDI benefits when overseas assuming you remain eligible based on the SSA guidelines. That means you need to have worked in jobs covered by Social Security and have enough credits to get SSDI benefits. 

There are specific rules related to citizenship and residency to gain SSDI benefits overseas. If you are a qualifying non-citizen or a US citizen, most people can receive these benefits while in most countries outside of the United States.

However, there are some limits and exclusions. For instance, if you want to live in North Korea or Cuba, you can’t receive SSDI benefits. If you live in a place where the SSA can’t send payments based on banking or legal restrictions, that may also be an issue. 

Information About Retirement and Survivor Benefits

If you happen to qualify for both retirement and survivor benefits, you may be eligible to receive both, with Social Security paying at least the retirement benefit. In most cases, the eligible individual receives a total of the higher benefit rate. 

However, it's important to consider factors such as the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO), which may affect benefit amounts and require careful evaluation to optimize your overall benefits.

Expert Guidance for Maximizing Benefits

Moving abroad doesn't necessarily mean forfeiting your Social Security benefits. Understanding the eligibility criteria, potential deductions, and filing strategies can help ensure you make the most of your Social Security benefits wherever you may be residing.

Seeking expert guidance from professionals like those at Cervoni Disability Law can further help individuals navigate the complexities of Social Security regulations and maximize their benefits in their new international settings. We’re here to provide the assistance you deserve. Reach out today to learn more or sign up for a completely free consultation.