Social Security and SSI: What’s the difference? – continued
τ σ τ σ τ σ τ σ τ σ τ σ τ σ τ σ τ σ τ σ
Some people receive both Social Security and SSI benefits. Anytime you receive SSI you must
report changes in your living arrangements and income. Social Security representatives are
your best source for information. If you have any questions about your benefits, or you are
not sure if you receive Social Security or SSI, please call us toll-free at 1-800-772-1213. We will
be happy to answer any questions you may have. You may also call or visit your local Social
Security office. To find out the address of your local office you may call our toll-free number or
visit our website at www.socialsecurity.gov
.
Question:
Mary, a Native American elder, is 67-years old
and receives retirement benefits. She retired
from her job after working 30 years. She
receives $600 per month. Her daughter and
grandson move into her home. Does Mary
have to report this to Social Security?
Answer:
No. Mary does not have to report a change in
her living arrangements. Social Security
benefits are not affected if someone moves
into or out of your home or if you move into or
out of someone’s home.
Question:
Mary just received her quarterly per capita
distribution from her tribe’s Revenue Sharing
Trust Fund. Does she need to report this to
Social Security?
Answer:
No. Mary does not need to report her per
capita distribution. Mary only needs to report
her wages if she returns to work.
SOMETIMES earnings from work affect Social
Security benefits. A representative will tell
you if your earnings will affect your check.
Question:
John and Lilly, Native American elders, are
both 68-years old. They have been receiving
SSI benefits for 2 years. Last week, John and
Lilly moved in with their son. They both have
direct deposit. Do they have to report to
Social Security that they now live with their
son?
Answer:
Yes. If you receive SSI payments you must
report changes in your living arrangements
right away. The report must be made to
Social Security and not your tribal social
worker.
Question:
John just received his quarterly per capita
distribution from his tribe’s Revenue Sharing
Trust Fund. Does he need to report this to
Social Security?
Answer:
Yes. John is required to report ALL income
he receives from ANY source. Social Security
representatives will determine if the income
will affect his SSI payments. Since per capita
distributions vary by tribe, there are different
rules for each type of distribution. When in
doubt, report the income to Social Security.