RELOCATION AND SSD BENEFITS
California residents who relocate to another state and who are receiving Social Security Disability benefits should see no change in the amount that they receive. Because the program is a national one, there will be no change even if the recipient's new state of residence requires less to live. The cost of living is not used to determine how much SSD benefits one receives.
The issue about which SSD benefits recipients should be concerned is whether their total monthly money will decrease if they relocate to another state. A move to a new state may result in a decrease to their overall benefits. This is because there are states that provide supplements to SSD benefits. SSD benefits recipients receiving supplements and who move to states that do not provide supplements may experience a decrease in overall money.
Individuals who currently receive monthly state supplemental benefits along with SSD and plan to move to a state that does not provide supplemental benefits should plan a budget to take this into account. Monthly SSD benefits are based on people's earnings before they became disabled and able to receive benefits and can only be increased by increases issued by the Social Security Administration. The amount of SSD benefits will not be increased, but recipients may receive a reduced monthly amount if an overpayment has to be repaid. Garnishments may also result in lower monthly payments.
Individuals who have unresolved issues with their Social Security Disability application may benefit from an attorney who has experience with these matters. It is unfortunately the case that most applications are initially denied, and an attorney could provide assistance during the appeals process.
Related Posts: Relocation and disability applications, Rules for filing a disability claim with Social Security, The nature of work performed is a disability factor, SSD benefits may not be permanent