Steps to Get Your SSI Check Back

Step 1: Understand Why Your SSI Check Was Stopped

Before you can take action to restore your SSI benefits, it’s important to determine why your check was stopped in the first place. There are several reasons why your SSI benefits may have been discontinued, including:

• Changes in Income: If your income increased beyond the allowable limit, your SSI benefits might have been reduced or stopped.
• Changes in Living Situation: Moving to a new address, changes in household size, or changes in your living arrangements can affect your eligibility.
• Failure to Provide Required Information: Missing deadlines or failing to submit required documentation, such as proof of income, medical records, or other forms requested by the SSA, can lead to suspension.
• Medical Improvement: If the SSA determined that your medical condition improved and you are no longer considered disabled, your SSI benefits could be stopped.
• Age Change: If you were receiving SSI as a child and you recently turned 18, the SSA may have stopped your payments until they re-evaluated your eligibility under adult rules.

Step 2: Contact the Social Security Administration (SSA)

If your SSI benefits were stopped, your first step is to contact the SSA to find out why. The SSA can provide detailed information on the reason for the discontinuation of your benefits.

• Call the SSA: You can contact the SSA directly at 1-800-772-1213 to inquire about your case.
• Check Your Online Account: If you have an online account with the SSA, you may be able to see the reason for your benefits being stopped.
• Request a Written Explanation: You can also request a written notice from the SSA explaining why your benefits were terminated or reduced.

Step 3: Correct the Issue or Submit Missing Information

Once you know the reason your SSI check was stopped, the next step is to take action. If the suspension was due to missing information, a change in your circumstances, or an error, you will need to resolve the issue.

• Provide Missing Documentation: If the SSA stopped your benefits because you failed to submit documentation (such as income or medical records), submit the missing information as soon as possible.
• Report Any Changes: If your benefits were stopped because you didn’t report changes to your income, living situation, or household size, provide the correct and updated information to the SSA immediately.
• Address Medical or Eligibility Concerns: If your disability status was questioned or if the SSA believes you no longer meet the criteria for SSI benefits, provide updated medical records or documentation from your doctor to support your claim.

Step 4: Request Reconsideration or Appeal

If your SSI benefits were stopped and you disagree with the SSA’s decision, you have the right to appeal. The appeals process can help restore your benefits if you feel the decision was made in error.

• Request Reconsideration: This is the first step in the appeals process. During reconsideration, the SSA will review your case again to ensure the correct decision was made.
• Request a Hearing: If reconsideration doesn’t result in the restoration of your benefits, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). This is an opportunity to present your case in person and provide additional evidence.
• Appeal to the Appeals Council: If you’re not satisfied with the ALJ’s decision, you can appeal to the SSA’s Appeals Council, who will review your case and make a final decision.

Step 5: Reapply for SSI Benefits

If your SSI benefits were stopped and your appeal was unsuccessful, you may need to reapply for benefits. This involves submitting a new application and providing updated documentation to show that you meet the eligibility criteria.

• Apply Online: You can apply for SSI benefits online at www.ssa.gov.
• Submit All Required Documents: Ensure that you provide all the necessary documentation, including proof of income, medical records, and any other information requested by the SSA.
• Work with an Advocate or Lawyer: If you are unsure about how to reapply or need assistance with the process, consider working with a Social Security Disability lawyer or advocate.

Step 6: Monitor Your Benefits Regularly

Once your SSI benefits have been reinstated, it’s important to regularly monitor your benefits and report any changes in your circumstances. This will help you avoid any future disruptions in your payments.

• Set Up an Online Account: Create or log in to your online account with the SSA to track the status of your SSI benefits and receive updates.
• Report Changes Promptly: Always report changes in your income, living situation, or medical condition to the SSA right away to avoid potential delays or issues with your benefits.