Social Security is the economic pillar for millions of retirees or people with disabilities in our country, that much we know, right? The SSA is in charge of providing economic support to people who either cannot work or have already finished their working life and now deserve to enjoy the fruits of it, but… do we know what the reasons are for which they could take it away from us?
Now in 2025, the SSA controls are going to intensify and now they could be suspending payments to all those beneficiaries who do not meet their new requirements. If you want to know what we’re talking about, just keep reading below!
Basic requirements for Social Security payments
The first is to keep your information up to date. It may seem like a trivial thing that shouldn’t even have to be mentioned, but many beneficiaries forget that they must notify the administration of any changes that occur. We’re not talking about dyeing your hair or getting cosmetic surgery, we’re talking about changes of address, extra income you may be receiving, employment situation, or marital status. Any of these changes, even if small, can cause the SSA to begin reviewing your claim and stop your payments.
The SSA periodically reviews the status of each beneficiary, so don’t hesitate to report any changes you make.
And the recertifications?
If you didn’t know, every so often, the SSA sends out verification and recertification letters to make sure you still need those payments, so don’t ignore them, because ignoring them will end in the immediate suspension of your monthly checks, and it won’t matter if you meet the requirements or not!
How will I receive these notifications?
From now on, it will be through the My Social Security Portal where you’ll receive and be able to respond to these notices, so stay alert!
What could cause immediate suspension?
The most common cases of immediate suspension of payment include:
- Not attending mandatory medical reviews in SSDI cases.
- The unreported death of a beneficiary.
- Misuse of payments by a legal representative.
And if there are incompatible aids?
If you receive other state or federal assistance that is not compatible with Social Security and you don’t have authorization, the SSA can automatically suspend your monthly check. This happens without prior notice and can be very difficult to reverse if you’re not keeping an eye on it. So… be careful!!
What can I do?
The first thing is to read and respond to all the letters and notifications you receive from the SSA! Ignoring a notice is not an option, it could result in you not receiving anything and also not being able to appeal. Pay attention and respond to everything that arrives if that’s what’s requested.
On the other hand, keep the SSA informed of your changes, as we said before, your address, your phone number, your bank (very important), or your personal situation. It’s not that the SSA is a nosy neighbour, but it needs to know all your information to adjust your payment, and now it’s as easy as updating your profile in the SSA portal.
It’s also advisable to check My Social Security at least once a month, so you make sure there are no surprises!
Essential for millions of families
For many retirees and SSDI beneficiaries (disability income), the Social Security check is not just money: it’s the difference between making it to the end of the month or not, and losing it can put food, housing, and health for the most vulnerable at risk.
So, don’t hesitate for a second to stay up to date with SSA updates, to check your information and your family members’ if needed, and if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact an SSA agent so they can guide you through your concerns. Anything rather than losing the monthly check!