How Long Can I Stay Abroad Without Losing My Benefits?

What SSI and SSDI recipients need to know before traveling or moving overseas

Introduction: Can I Keep My Benefits While Traveling?

If you receive SSI or SSDI, you may be wondering:

🌍 “Can I travel internationally while on disability?”

🕒 “How long can I be gone?”

🧳 “Will SSA cut off my payments if I leave the country?”

The short answer:

✅ Yes, but how long you can stay abroad depends on the type of benefit you receive.

This post explains:

✅ SSI vs. SSDI rules for international travel

✅ Time limits and reporting requirements

✅ Tips to protect your benefits while away

✅ How Purple helps you monitor your account from anywhere

1. SSI and SSDI Have Different Travel Rules

The Social Security Administration (SSA) treats SSI and SSDI very differently when it comes to foreign travel.

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SSI (Supplemental Security Income):

• You can leave the U.S. for up to 30 days

• After 30 days, your SSI payments stop

• Payments resume only once you return and stay in the U.S. for 30 days straight

📌 Special rule: Puerto Rico, Guam, U.S. Virgin Islands, and Northern Mariana Islands do not count as “abroad” for SSI.

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SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance):

• You can travel or live abroad indefinitely

• SSDI is usually paid no matter where you are — as long as you’re eligible

• Some countries have restrictions (like North Korea or Cuba)

📌 SSA provides a list of countries where SSDI can or cannot be sent: ssa.gov/international

2. What Counts as “Being Abroad”?

SSA considers you to be “outside the U.S.” if you’re:

• Physically present in another country for more than 30 consecutive days

• Not including time spent traveling through U.S. territories

💡 Pro tip: If you’re planning to leave and return within 30 days, SSI will not be affected.

3. How to Report Your Travel Plans to SSA

SSA requires recipients to report:

• International travel if you’re on SSI

• Change of address if moving abroad

• Any change that could affect your benefits

You can report changes:

• Online at ssa.gov

• By calling 1-800-772-1213

• Or by visiting your local SSA office

4. Will My Medicaid Be Affected Too?

Yes. Medicaid is state-based and does not cover care while you’re outside the U.S.

Even if you’re still receiving SSDI, your Medicaid may be paused or canceled while abroad.

💡 You may qualify for Medicare after 2 years on SSDI — but even Medicare has limited coverage outside the U.S.

5. How Purple Helps You Stay Connected While Abroad

💜 Real-Time Deposit Alerts

Know the moment your SSI or SSDI hits — no matter where you are in the world.

💜 Smart Tagging

See whether your deposit is from SSI, SSDI, or another source.

💜 Companion AI Support

Ask your Companion:

• “Will this trip affect my benefits?”

• “Can I receive SSDI while living in Mexico?”

• “Should I report my travel to SSA?”

💜 FDIC-Insured U.S. Account

Keep your money safe in a U.S.-based checking account, even if you’re traveling abroad.

FAQs About Traveling with Disability Benefits

⚠️ Can I get SSI if I move to another country?

No — SSI is only paid while in the U.S. or territories, and stops after 30 days abroad.

⚠️ Can I receive SSDI in another country?

Yes — SSDI can be paid to eligible recipients in most countries.

⚠️ What happens when I come back to the U.S.?

Your SSI can restart after you’ve been back for 30 consecutive days.

⚠️ Do I need to notify SSA before traveling?

Yes — especially if you’re on SSI. Always report changes to avoid overpayments.

Conclusion: Know the Rules Before You Fly

✅ SSDI recipients can live abroad with fewer restrictions

✅ SSI payments pause after 30 days outside the U.S.

✅ Always notify SSA of travel plans or address changes

💜 Open your Purple account today to stay on top of your benefits — at home or abroad.