Millions of Social Security Recipients Must Act Before February or Face Payment Suspension

The Social Security Administration (SSA) requires certain beneficiaries to update their personal and financial information in February to continue receiving their Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments without interruption. This process ensures that benefits are accurate and comply with SSA regulations. Failure to provide timely updates may result in payment delays or suspension.

Information That Must Be Updated

To maintain SSI eligibility, beneficiaries must report changes in several key areas that could affect their benefits.

One of the most important updates involves personal information. Any changes in name, phone number, mailing, or residential address should be reported promptly. Keeping this information current ensures that beneficiaries receive important correspondence and that payments are sent to the correct location.

Changes in employment and legal status must also be reported. If a beneficiary starts a new job, experiences a change in marital status, or undergoes a modification in citizenship, these updates must be communicated to the SSA. Such changes can impact the amount of benefits received or eligibility for continued assistance.

Household composition is another critical factor. If there is a birth, a death, or if someone moves in or out of the household, it must be reported. These adjustments may influence the calculation of benefits since the number of people in a household can affect financial need assessments.

Financial changes, including income and asset updates, should also be disclosed. If a beneficiary opens a new bank account, experiences a change in asset balances, or begins receiving additional income from another source, the SSA must be informed.

Finally, extended absences from the U.S. must be reported if they exceed 30 consecutive days. Prolonged stays outside the country can impact eligibility for SSI benefits, making it essential to inform the SSA about travel plans.

These changes must be reported by the 10th of the month following the change. Missing the deadline may lead to delays or interruptions in payments.

Methods to Update Information

SSI recipients have multiple ways to report changes to the SSA:

• By phone: Call +1 800-772-1213 or +1 800-325-0778 (TTY) from Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• By mail or fax: Send supporting documents to the local SSA office.
• In-person visit: Visit the nearest SSA office for personalized assistance.

Updating Bank Account Information

Beneficiaries who have changed their bank account must update their details with the SSA immediately. Providing the new routing and account number ensures that payments continue without delay. This update must be made through official SSA channels.