If you receive Social Security Disability (SSD) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you might be wondering:
“Will I lose my benefits if I move to a different state?”
This is a common concern — especially for people who are relocating to be closer to family, find better healthcare, or lower their cost of living.
The good news is:
✅ Yes, you can move to another state and still keep your benefits.
But the steps you need to take — and how your benefits are affected — depend on whether you’re receiving SSD or SSI.
Let’s break it down.
If You Receive Social Security Disability (SSD)
You’re in luck — SSD benefits are federal, which means they’re the same no matter where you live.
✅ You can move to any U.S. state or territory (including Puerto Rico, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands) and your SSD benefits will continue without interruption.
What You Need to Do:
- Notify the Social Security Administration (SSA) of your new address
- Update your banking information if your move affects your direct deposit
- Make sure SSA has your updated contact info in case they need to reach you
💡 Tip: If you’re enrolled in Medicare, it’s a good idea to check whether your health plan (especially Medicare Advantage or Part D) will still cover you in your new state. You may need to switch plans.
If You Receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
SSI is a federal program, but your state of residence can affect your benefit amount because many states add a state supplement to the federal payment.
Here’s what you need to know:
- The federal base SSI payment remains the same nationwide
- Some states add extra money (a “state supplement”) — and others do not
- Your Medicaid coverage may also change when you move
States That Do Not Pay a State Supplement:
- Arizona
- Mississippi
- North Dakota
- West Virginia
- Northern Mariana Islands
If you’re moving from a state that pays a supplement to one that doesn’t, your monthly payment could go down slightly.
What You Need to Do When Moving on SSI:
- Report your move to SSA right away — ideally before you move
- Contact the Medicaid office in your new state — you will likely need to reapply, as Medicaid is managed by each state
- If you receive SNAP (food stamps) or other state benefits, you’ll also need to reapply in your new state
✅ SSA requires you to report any change in address or living situation within 10 days of the move — even if your payment doesn’t change.
What If You’re Receiving Both SSD and SSI?
Many people receive concurrent benefits (both SSD and SSI). If that’s you:
- Your SSD won’t change
- Your SSI amount may change depending on the state
- You’ll likely need to reapply for Medicaid in your new state
Moving Outside the U.S.?
- SSD recipients can sometimes keep their benefits while living abroad (depending on the country)
- SSI recipients cannot receive benefits while living outside the U.S. for more than 30 days
Always contact SSA if you’re considering moving abroad to find out how it will affect your benefits.
Final Thoughts
✅ You can move to another state and still keep your disability benefits — but you need to report the change to SSA and take a few steps to protect your coverage.
Here’s what to remember:
- SSD stays the same in every state
- SSI may vary slightly depending on state supplements
- Medicaid coverage will require new enrollment in your new state
- Notify SSA of your move within 10 days
If you have questions or need help coordinating your move with your benefits, it’s a great idea to contact your local Social Security office — or speak with a disability advocate who can guide you through the process.