The United States Social Security Administration warns that changing your marital status may imply losing a benefit. It is of vital importance that you make sure this could be your case. Your financial situation may suffer if you lose that income. Therefore, let us disclose the different possibilities in order to avoid losing them. Do not forget that it is your duty to inform Social Security of any changes regarding marriage.
Bear in mind that my Social Security account is the best way to sort many things out. Many people believe that it is not safe to access their SSA account online, but they assure you it is secure. There you can control all your personal information. It is really important to have one or get one if you do not have one yet.
Why can you lose your benefit if you get married?
The first thing you need to take into account is that a wedding implies having a new financial situation. So, it is essential to tell Social Security about it so they can check it does not affect your benefits. A wedding may involve moving to a new home or even changing your last name. Those changes must be reported to SSA.
Remember you got your benefit under certain circumstances and they may have changed after the marriage. There is a 10-day window to inform SSA after the month of your wedding. Not doing so may result in getting a penalty or even losing those benefits.
Why can changing your last name may affect your SSA benefits?
If you do not tell SSA about your new name, the payments will have a different name other than yours. So, if you would like to sort it out online you will need a certificate. A certified copy of a wedding will be essential to get your new Social Security card. In the event of not being able to do it online, you can visit an SSA office that is close to you.
Do not forget about updating your new address, they could send your check to your former home. Getting more money than you are entitled to, due to the new financial situation, results in giving it back. SSA may also suspend the following payments. This penalty could take from 6 to 24 months.