Collecting Disability Benefits Outside the United States

U.S. citizens who qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) can continue receiving their monthly benefits even when living outside the United States. The Social Security Administration (SSA) continues payments to eligible beneficiaries living in most foreign countries. However, your ongoing eligibility and ability to receive those payments depends on several factors, including which country you reside in, how long you remain abroad, and whether you are a U.S. citizen or a non-citizen.

At The Keener Law Firm, we’ve worked with many disability recipients considering relocation to another country, and we know how important it is to protect your benefits. Our team helps clients avoid disruptions and stay in full compliance with the SSA’s requirements—wherever life takes them.

How Does the SSA Define “Living Abroad”?

The SSA defines living “outside the United States” as being physically located in a foreign country for at least 30 consecutive days. U.S. territories—including Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the Northern Mariana Islands—do not count as foreign countries for SSA purposes. These locations are treated the same as being in the continental U.S. for benefit eligibility and payment.

The Social Security Administration considers you to be back in the United States only after you spend 30 or more consecutive days physically inside the country.

This definition is important because it determines when the SSA begins applying the rules for international recipients and could require additional paperwork for you to verify your continued eligibility.

What Happens to Your SSDI Payments When You Move?

SSDI is based on your work history and the taxes you paid into the Social Security system. As long as you remain disabled and meet the SSA’s eligibility rules, your monthly payment amount does not change just because you reside in another country.

The SSA requires all beneficiaries living outside the U.S. to submit periodic reports verifying their status. These reports need to include confirmation that you remain disabled, whether you’ve worked or earned any income, and whether you’ve changed addresses.

Failing to file these reports or providing inconsistent information can result in suspension of your benefits.

The Keener Law Firm has seen claimants lose benefits because they missed deadlines or submitted incomplete documentation. If you’re planning to live abroad, we can help you stay organized and prevent administrative issues that could lead to your benefits payment being delayed or suspended.

Are SSI Recipients Treated the Same as SSDI Beneficiaries?

No. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits are not payable to individuals who leave the United States for 30 consecutive days or more. Even if you remain a U.S. citizen and still meet all the other conditions for disability, SSI payments will stop once you’re outside the country for more than a month. They might resume once you return and re-establish residence in the United States.

Unlike SSDI, which is based on payroll contributions, SSI is a need-based program. Because it’s designed to support individuals living in the U.S. with very limited income and assets, the federal government restricts benefits to people physically present in the country.

Can You Work While Living Abroad and Still Keep Your SSDI Benefits?

Yes, but the same restrictions apply no matter where you live. If you perform what the SSA considers “substantial gainful activity” (SGA), earn more than $1,620 per month, your SSDI benefits can be suspended or terminated. Blind SSDI recipients can earn up to $2,700 in 2025 without jeopardizing their benefits.

You should also note that living abroad does not exempt you from SSA reviews. Periodically, the agency will conduct a Continuing Disability Review (CDR) to determine whether your medical condition still qualifies as disabling. The SSA can also investigate your work history or other income.

The Keener Law Firm often works with clients undergoing CDRs, especially those whose care providers are located overseas. We help ensure that medical records from foreign doctors are properly documented and translated so your case is evaluated fairly.

What About Taxes and Banking?

Social Security benefits may be subject to U.S. income tax depending on your overall income, even if you live abroad. Many countries have tax treaties with the U.S. that prevent double taxation. However, it’s wise to consult both legal and tax professionals if you plan to reside abroad long-term.

In terms of banking, direct deposit into a U.S. account is often the simplest way to access your benefits abroad. The SSA does associate with select banks in dozens of countries for international direct deposit. However, not every bank participates in these programs, and not every country is included.

We usually advise clients at The Keener Law Firm to maintain a U.S. bank account for benefit deposits. This simplifies access to funds and reduces the chance of missed communications.

Are There Special Rules for Non-U.S. Citizens?

Yes. Non-US citizens receiving SSDI could have their benefits suspended if they move to a country with no SSA benefit agreement in place. These bilateral agreements, known as totalization treaties, allow workers to combine work credits between two countries to qualify for benefits and continue receiving payments while living abroad.

If you’re not a U.S. citizen and you move overseas, your eligibility will depend on several factors—including your immigration status, length of time in the U.S., and the relationship between your home country and the United States. With these highly specific rules, even small errors in documentation can cause months of delay.

The Keener Law Firm also helps non-citizens address these complications to maintain their rightful benefits whenever possible.

Should You Notify the SSA Before Moving?

Yes. You must inform the SSA of any international travel lasting longer than 30 days, as well as any change of address, change in marital status, or employment activity. Failure to update your information can result in benefit overpayments or a suspension of benefits.

The SSA requires you to complete a “Foreign Enforcement Questionnaire” (Form SSA-7162) or other documentation while abroad. These forms confirm that you’re still alive and eligible for benefits. If you miss a deadline, the SSA may suspend payments until it receives verification.

The Keener Law Firm help clients prepare these disclosures and respond promptly to SSA inquiries, minimizing the risk of unnecessary interruptions in payment.

Protecting Your SSDI Benefits While Living Abroad

Receiving SSDI while living abroad is entirely possible for most U.S. citizens, but it requires attention to rules, deadlines, and foreign residency conditions. Here at The Keener Law Firm, we understand the complexities of international residency and SSDI law. We work with clients nationwide who are planning to live overseas and want to preserve their benefits without risking suspension or overpayment demands.

If you are receiving or preparing to apply for Social Security Disability Insurance and planning an extended stay abroad, contact The Keener Law Firm today. We’ll help you understand your obligations, avoid mistakes, and protect the benefits that support your daily life.