I sympathize with all the retirees who might find themselves in this kind of situation where there is a sudden change in your Supplemental Security Income (SSI) possibly as a result of your unexpected earnings. It can be quite exasperating, I know. Because you toiled to earn your entitlements, and these should not be easily taken, without any form of clarity or explanation. However, if you are currently facing a similar situation then let’s discuss this through a step by step process to help you clear up any gray areas, and the most pressing questions you most likely have.
Why is my SSI being cut off when I have not worked?
The main problem started when a letter was sent informing you that your earnings for this month is $1,441 and that your SSI payment is off. And you were wondering: “But I have not worked, how can this be possible?”
Here are some reasons you may be facing this situation:
Mistaken identity or typo: At times, there are chances where someone else’s earnings are misquoted and submitted under another person’s Social Security Number, whether by error or by a mere mix up of records.
Identity theft: Unfortunately, in this day and age identity theft is quite rampant. Someone may be working using your social security number and getting more benefits.
Confusion caused by employers in reporting: An employer can submit earnings to the SSA, filing a report under the incorrect SSN.
What you can do:
- Call your local SSA office immediately. It is important to contact your local Social Security office directly, as they can explain why they believe you earned this income and how to correct it.
- Check your Social Security account statement. You can log in to your SSA account online to review any income reported under your Social Security number. This can give you insights into where the error might have occurred.
- Verify your credit reports. Since you have already checked your credit reports and found no suspicious activity, that is a good sign, but identity theft related to employment can still occur without affecting your credit score. Always stay vigilant.
Could someone be using my Social Security number for work?
Yes, it is possible. Identity theft involving Social Security numbers is more common than people realize. If someone uses your Social Security number to work, those earnings will be reported to the SSA, and they may affect your SSI payments.
What you can do:
- Report to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to help you recover your account.
- Submit a signed statement to SSA. Along with the FTC report, provide a signed statement to the SSA that the income they are reporting is not yours. The SSA will investigate to verify your claim.
What happens if this is an SSA error?
If this is an error from the SSA, then here are a few things you can do:
- Request a reconsideration. You can reach out to the SSA and request that your case should be reconsidered.- All you need to do is provide the necessary evidence to support your claim.
- Keep records. Ensure that you document every conversation and piece of evidence you provide. Keeping good records will help if the issue drags on.
The social security system can encounter glitches. If the SSA has made an error regarding your income records, you need to contact the agency for correction and they will respond favorably after the necessary evaluation. This process may take time. So be prepared to exercise patience.
What you can do:
Request a reconsideration of their decision – If you know the SSA is wrong about your situation, it is your right to request for your case to be re – assessed. This process will allow you to provide evidence to support your stance.
Maintain a record of things – Take note that it is very important to keep a record of every phone call and every piece of evidence that you have given. Having this sort of evidence will prove invaluable in the future as the case progresses.
What if I need help during this time?
If your SSI payments are cut off or reduced, it can put you in a tough financial spot. While you are sorting things out with the SSA, here are a few options you might want to consider to help you get by until you are able to resolve your payment issue with the SSA:
- Local assistance programs: Many states and local communities have programs that can help you with food, housing, or utilities while you deal with your SSI issue.
- Food stamps (SNAP): If your income is low, you may qualify for food assistance through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
Can I still receive SSI if I earned money?
Let’s assume for a moment that you received an income, for instance from a long – forgotten investment or another type of income. If this is the case, your payment will not be abruptly cut off. This means, you can still receive your SSI benefits as long as you do not exceed the income limit required by the SSI. You can get more information on SSI benefits and earnings via the official site of the SSA.
What can you ask the SSA?
You can ask the SSA the following questions:
- What kind of evidence should I submit to show that these earnings do not belong to me?
- After this matter is settled, when will I begin to receive my benefits?
- What measures can I take to prevent identity theft on my accounts in future?
