Will My Social Security Disability Change if I Move to Another State?

SSDI & SSI Are Federal Programs. But There Are Several Considerations When You Move.

More than 7 million Americans move to a different state every year. If you’re currently receiving Social Security Disability benefits (SSDI or SSI), it’s common to wonder how moving from one state to another could affect your monthly payments. 

Because the federal government administers disability benefits, the good news is you will not lose your eligibility or need to reapply. However, there are certain considerations you should take into account depending on whether:

1. Your claim is pending (still awaiting approval)
2. Your claim is approved (you’re currently receiving benefits)

Our Iowa Social Security Disability attorneys are used to walking people through the many steps on their journey. Here’s a look at what stays the same, what could change, and what you should know about the moving process.

What Stays the Same: Your Social Security Disability Benefits

The federal government administers two different Social Security Disability programs:

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

Since both of these benefits are national programs, your benefits will not change if you move across state lines. That means you don’t have to reapply for benefits if you move. All you need to do is inform the Social Security Administration (SSA) of your change of address.

Potential State-Specific Changes

While your core Social Security Disability benefits won’t change, there are other types of benefits you may receive that could change.

State Supplementary Payments

Some states offer additional payments on top of SSI benefits that raise the amount of income people can receive, in certain cases. For example, Iowa offers a program called State Supplementary Assistance (SSA). Some states offer no additional benefits. If you move to another state, these state-level benefits could change. However, your federal SSI benefit will remain the same. If you are receiving state supplementary payments, talk with your attorney about how moving could affect your eligibility.

State & Local Programs

Aside from your SSDI or SSI income, you may receive aid from other government programs. These could include food assistance (such as SNAP), Medicaid, or housing assistance. You may need to reapply for some or all of these programs when you move. Working with a local attorney will help ensure you know how to reapply and keep any gap in benefits to a minimum.

State Taxes on SSDI Benefits

Iowa does not have state taxes on SSI or SSDI. However, some states may tax your SSDI benefits if your income exceeds a certain threshold. For specific advice on how state taxes could affect you, it’s best to consult a tax professional.

What to Do if Your Claim Is Pending

If you plan to move while you are applying for Social Security Disability or appealing a denied claim, here are three important steps to follow: 

1. Notify the Social Security Administration and your attorney immediately. The SSA will transfer your case file to the new state’s disability determination services office. Your attorney will help guide you through the moving process to ensure it flows smoothly.

2. Consider seeking local legal counsel. This is particularly true if you are moving while awaiting an administrative law judge hearing. Talk with your current attorney about whether you could have them represent you remotely or if it’s better to find a local attorney to represent you in person. It can be helpful to have a lawyer who is familiar with local judges and their preferences. Local attorneys can also help you connect with local agencies, assistance programs, and doctors. Here are some important factors to consider when you’re choosing a new disability attorney.

3. Re-establish medical care. It’s important to immediately find a new medical provider in your area to continue your continuous treatment for your disability. This is important for both your health and the success of your claim.

What to Do if You Are Already Approved

If you have already been approved for disability benefits, here are two important steps to take:

1. Notify the Social Security Administration and your attorney immediately. Similar to pending cases, this is the most important first step. You must notify the SSA of your change of address. Also notify your attorney so they are aware of your new address and able to help however you need.

2. Re-establish medical care. Continuing medical care is essential to protecting your benefits. Work with your attorney to transfer your medical treatment to your new city so that you can avoid gaps in care.

Navigating a Move? Work With Our Expert Des Moines Attorneys

If you are considering moving in or out of Iowa, our attorneys can help. We have the expertise to help you ensure you are able to maintain and re-establish the benefits and care you need during the process. With more than 20 years of Social Security Disability experience, our local attorneys are here to help you. Schedule a free consultation today.