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Maintaining Eligibility:
Once you’ve been approved for Social Security benefits, it’s crucial to understand and follow the rules to maintain your eligibility. Here are key areas to focus on:
You must report any changes that could affect your benefits:
Changes in income or resources
Changes in living arrangements
Changes in marital status
Changes in health condition (for disability benefits)
Leaving the country for 30 days or more
Report these changes to the Social Security Administration (SSA) within 10 days of the month following the change.
If you’re receiving disability benefits:
Report any work activity to the SSA
Understand the Trial Work Period (TWP) and Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limits
Keep track of your earnings and work hours
For retirement benefits, be aware of the earnings limit if you’re working before full retirement age.
For disability beneficiaries:
Cooperate with periodic Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs).
Attend any medical examinations requested by the SSA.
Provide updated medical information as requested.
For Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients:
Maintain resources below $2,000 for individuals or $3,000 for couples.
Report any changes in resources promptly.
Maintain U.S. residency (or in certain cases, residency in U.S. territories).
Report any changes in citizenship or immigration status.
Report any period of incarceration, as benefits may be suspended during this time.
By staying informed and proactive about these requirements, you can help ensure the continuity of your benefits and avoid potential overpayments or benefit suspensions.