14 Apr Will my disability benefits change if I move to another state?

Posted at 05:01h in Ask NJMoneyHelp, Retirement by
Photo: pixabay.com

Q. If you’re collecting Social Security disability in one state, and you move to another state, will that affect your Social Security disability? Would it go up or go down or stay the same?
— Leaving, maybe

A. Good question.

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits do not change if you move to another state.

Like Social Security retirement benefits, SSDI payments are based on your average lifetime earnings and are not affected by where you live, said Evan Drury, a chartered financial consultant with U.S. Financial Services in Fairfield.

“While the amount of your SSDI benefit does not change state to state, whether you pay income taxes on it could,” he said. “Twelve states tax Social Security payments for at least some recipients.”

That doesn’t include Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which is not taxed anywhere, Drury said.
If you receive SSI, moving to a new state could change your monthly payments because most states supplement federal SSI payments from their own funds, Drury said.

If you move in with a friend, partner, or family member when you relocate, you will need to report your change of address to the Social Security Administration, he said. However, the fact that you will now be living with someone will not affect your right to SSDI benefits. That is because your eligibility is based on your work and income history and not on the income of those you live with, he said.

Email your questions to .

This story was originally published on April 14, 2022.

NJMoneyHelp.com presents certain general financial planning principles and advice, but should never be viewed as a substitute for obtaining advice from a personal professional advisor who understands your unique individual circumstances.

Tags: