Every year, thousands of Social Security beneficiaries lose their monthly checks due to simple mistakes. Many don’t realize they’ve made an error until it’s too late, leaving them without crucial income. One of the most common issues is failing to report important changes in income, marital status, or residence to the Social Security Administration (SSA).
If you’re receiving benefits, it’s critical to understand how even small oversights can impact your payments. According to the SSA, beneficiaries are required to report any changes that could affect their eligibility or payment amounts. Here’s what you need to know to avoid losing your Social Security benefits.
Changes You Must Report
One of the biggest mistakes beneficiaries make is not updating the SSA about changes in their situation. Here are the most common updates you need to report:
- Income from work: If you’re working while receiving Social Security benefits, you must report any additional earnings. For 2024, the annual income limit is $21,240. Earning above this threshold without notifying the SSA can lead to reduced payments or suspension of benefits. You can find detailed income rules on the SSA’s website.
- Marital status: Getting married, divorced, or becoming widowed can change your eligibility or the amount of benefits you receive. For example, spousal or survivor benefits often depend on your current marital status.
- Moving abroad: If you move outside the United States, it’s essential to inform the SSA. Not all countries allow benefit payments, and specific agreements between the U.S. and other nations may impact your eligibility.
How This Mistake Could Cost You
Failing to report these changes can result in the SSA determining that you were overpaid. If this happens, you may have to repay the extra funds. In some cases, the SSA may suspend your benefits entirely until the issue is resolved.
For instance, a beneficiary who earned extra income without notifying the SSA could receive a letter months later demanding repayment of thousands of dollars. This can cause significant financial hardship, especially for individuals relying on their benefits for daily living expenses.
Steps to Avoid Losing Your Social Security Check
To avoid these costly mistakes, follow these simple steps:
- Report changes immediately: You can update your information through your My Social Security account at ssa.gov/myaccount or by calling the SSA at 1-800-772-1213.
- Keep accurate records: Save copies of your pay stubs, tax documents, and any correspondence with the SSA. Having detailed records can help you resolve disputes quickly if any issues arise.
- Consult a professional: If you’re unsure about your eligibility or need help navigating a complex situation, consider speaking with a lawyer or advisor who specializes in Social Security benefits.
- Check your account regularly: Log in to your My Social Security account to ensure all your details are up-to-date and accurate.
How to Maximize Your Benefits
In addition to avoiding mistakes, there are ways to ensure you’re receiving the full benefits you’re entitled to. For example, the SSA adjusts payments annually to account for inflation through the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). In 2024, beneficiaries will see an increase in their payments thanks to COLA. You can view the updated payment schedule on the SSA’s official COLA page.
If you suspect your benefits have been unfairly reduced or withheld, the SSA offers programs to assist beneficiaries facing financial difficulties. These resources can help you resolve disputes and recover your payments quickly.
Protecting your Social Security benefits is crucial for financial security. By staying informed and proactive, you can ensure that your monthly check arrives without interruptions. For more information and resources, visit the official Social Security Administration website at ssa.gov.
