Key Changes You Must Report

Changes in Income

If you start working, earn more income, or receive additional financial support (like workers’ compensation or VA benefits), you must report it. This applies whether you’re receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

• For SSI, even small income changes can affect your monthly benefit.
• For SSDI, exceeding the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) threshold could lead to benefit suspension.

Employment Status

Starting, stopping, or changing jobs—including self-employment—must be reported. SSA needs to know about:

• Your work hours
• Job duties
• Wages or salary
• Any work incentives you’re using (like a trial work period)

Change of Address

If you move to a new address, it can affect your eligibility, especially under the SSI program. Housing arrangements may impact your living situation category, which in turn affects benefit amounts.

Change in Living Arrangements

If someone moves in or out of your home (such as a spouse, roommate, or caregiver), this could impact your benefits. SSA also considers whether you are receiving free or reduced-cost housing or food.

Marital Status

Marriage, divorce, separation, or the death of a spouse should be reported right away. These events may affect both SSDI and SSI eligibility, especially if your benefits are calculated based on your spouse’s income or record.

Medical Improvement

If your condition improves and you are able to work or perform daily activities that were previously restricted by your disability, you must notify SSA. They may conduct a Continuing Disability Review (CDR) to assess your ongoing eligibility.

Resources and Assets (SSI Only)

SSI recipients must also report any significant changes in assets, such as:

• Bank account balances
• Receiving an inheritance
• Owning additional property or vehicles

If your countable resources exceed the SSI limit, you could lose eligibility.

How to Report These Changes

You can report changes through any of the following:

• Online through your My Social Security account
• By phone: Call SSA at 1-800-772-1213
• In person at your local SSA office
• By mail, using the appropriate SSA forms

It’s best to report changes as soon as possible, ideally within 10 days of the change. Delays can result in overpayments and penalties.