The Easy Mistake That Can Get Your Social Security Suspended

To get your Social Security benefits without a hitch, make sure your details at the Social Security Administration are up-to-date. This might seem easy, but life changes fast — you might change your name after getting married, start getting more or less salary, or move to another country for over 30 days. If you don't report these changes to the SSA by the 10th day of the month it happened, your benefits might be suspended and it will be because you made a mistake that interfered with the process of the SSA.

For example, if you move and forget to update your address, the SSA might be unable send its periodic verification to find out if you are still eligible for the benefits you receive. It might send requests for information to verify your income status, living arrangements, or other factors that affect your benefits. If it cannot confirm your information due to a lack of response (because you moved), your benefits may be suspended until the verification is completed.

Also, getting married or divorced can affect how much money you get from Social Security and not notifying the SSA can cause you to receive a higher amount, which you will refund. In a case where new-weds are retirees receiving benefits, the total amount you both receive might be recalculated based on the combined income and assets, especially if either of you gets Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

There are three ways you can update your personal information — online, by phone or in person. If you already receive Social Security benefits or you have Medicare, change your address and phone number using your "My Social Security." You can also manage other personal information, such as direct deposit details, and view your Social Security statement through this online account. To access these services, simply log in or create an account if you haven't done so.

Alternatively, if you are not comfortable with the online process or do not have internet access, you can also update your information by calling the SSA at 1-800-772-1213. For those who have hearing impairments, the TTY number is 1-800-325-0778. This service is available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

If you prefer or need to handle this process in person, it is recommended you schedule an appointment before visiting your local Social Security office so you don't get delayed. You can make, reschedule, or cancel an appointment either online through the Social Security Administration's (SSA) website or by calling its national toll-free number, 1-800-772-1213. Also, have your Social Security number and current personal details ready to verify your identity and quicken the process.

Aside from not updating your personal information, there are other things that can affect your Social Security benefits. If you start claiming benefits before you the full retirement age of 70 and keep working, be mindful of how much you earn. For 2025, you can make up to $23,400 a year and it will not affect your benefits. If you earn more than that, your benefits will be cut by $1 for every $2 you earn over the limit.

If you receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), the SSA would often check if you still qualify for the benefits. If it asks you for medical records or proof of income and you don't respond, your benefits could be temporarily stopped. Also, if you're sent to prison for more than 30 days because of a criminal conviction, your benefits will be put on hold. It will restart when you're released, but you have to let the SSA know and show the needed documents.

If you've hit the full retirement age of 67 and aren't yet 70, you have the option to pause your benefits to rack up delayed retirement credits. This can increase your monthly payment by 8% for each year you delay. But keep in mind, this decision also pauses any benefits that others, like your spouse, might be receiving under your account, but it can help that spouse in the long run.