Any government program requires you to report any changes that may occur. No matter how small or insignificant it is, reporting those changes should be a priority. There are consequences for not reporting the changes as well. There are a variety of factors that qualify you to report for disability benefits. Reporting your changes will keep your benefits paying out without having to suffer a penalty. The changes should take no more than ten days after the month ends.
The things that you must report include; a change of address or living arrangements, change in income (unearned and earned), change in resources, the death of a spouse or anyone in the household, change in marital status, and change in citizenship or immigration status. Changes in living with friends or relatives, eligibility of other payments, admission to or discharge from an institution, change in school attendance if under 22, change in alien status, and sponsor’s changes. If you are leaving the United States for more than a month, it needs to be reported. Unsatisfied felony or arrest warrant is critical as well.
If you are claiming disability, you need to report any improvements to your medical conditions. Starting or stopping work, or hours changing should be declared as well. Changes to your Ticket to Work status or any modification of the type of work expenses. For reporting income, you must provide earnings from work and other income you are receiving. It includes all pre-tax earnings and vacation and sick pay. Informing Social Security when you receive your payments is also critical. Though some changes to your accounts may occur, it is better to report the changes, than trying to hide them.
There are various places you can report to Social Security to update any changes. You can call or visit the local Social Security office. There is a toll-free number you can call anytime at 1-800-772-1213. Understanding what needs to be reported can prevent losing any payments. Some consequences of not reporting include having your benefits being terminated or suspended. If Social Security overpays you, you may have to owe the difference on the payment. Your payments can drop from $25-100, depending on the amount of failed reports. Inaccurately reporting changes will also lead to a penalty. Your payments can be suspended for 6,12, or 24 months, depending on how many infractions you have incurred throughout the process.
