Getting a notice that your Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments are under review can be a little unsettling. You might be wondering what caused it or if you are going to lose your benefits. But do not panic just yet. These reviews are a normal part of the process. The Social Security Administration (SSA) does them to make sure everyone is still eligible and getting the right amount.
Let us break it down in a way that makes it easy to understand.
Why does the Social Security Administration review my SSI benefits?
The SSA reviews your SSI benefits to make sure everything about your situation is still accurate. They want to confirm that you still qualify and that you are getting the correct payment each month.
Here is what they usually check:
- Your income: This includes money you earn from work or get from other sources.
- Your resources: These are things like your savings, property (not your home), or anything of value you own.
- Your living situation: Who you live with and where you live can affect how much you get.
- Your medical condition (if you get SSI for disability): They may check to see if your condition has improved or changed.
How often do SSI reviews happen?
These reviews do not happen every month, but they are a regular part of the SSI process. There are two main types:
- Redeterminations: These are done every one to six years. The SSA reviews your financial situation to make sure you still qualify.
- Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs): If you receive SSI because of a disability, the SSA may check in every few years to see if your health condition has improved.
If your condition is expected to improve, your case might be reviewed more often. If not, the reviews might happen less often.
What should I do if I get a review notice?
If you get a letter saying your SSI is under review, do not ignore it. Here is what you should do:
- Respond on time: Follow the instructions in the letter. There will be a deadline.
- Gather your documents: Be ready to show proof of income, bank statements, rent or mortgage payments, and any other information they request.
- Be honest: If anything in your life has changed, let them know. They are not there to punish you. They just want to make sure things are fair.
Can my payments stop because of the review?
Yes, your payments could stop or change. But that only happens if they find out:
- Your income or resources are now too high
- You no longer meet the medical requirements
- You failed to respond or provide information
The good news is that if your payments stop and you disagree with the decision, you can appeal it.
What if I am still eligible after the review?
If everything checks out, your payments will continue just like before. In some cases, you might even get a little more if the review finds that your situation has changed in a way that increases your benefits.
Continue reading:
Can children with disabilities get Supplemental Security Income (SSI) from Social Security?
