Step 1: Understand Why You Might Want to Get Off SSI

There are several reasons you might want to stop receiving SSI benefits:

• Improved Financial Situation: If your income or savings has increased, you may no longer meet the eligibility criteria for SSI, which is based on income and assets.
• Return to Work: If you’re able to return to work and earn above a certain threshold, you may want to stop receiving SSI and support yourself through employment.
• Change in Disability Status: If you’re no longer disabled or if your disability no longer prevents you from working, you may be able to stop receiving SSI benefits.
• Other Benefits: Some individuals may choose to transition from SSI to other government benefits, such as Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), if they qualify based on their work history.

Step 2: Voluntarily Stopping SSI Benefits

If you’ve decided you no longer need SSI or want to transition off it, you can voluntarily stop receiving benefits. Here’s how:

• Contact the SSA: Reach out to the Social Security Administration (SSA) and inform them that you wish to stop receiving SSI benefits. This can be done by calling 1-800-772-1213, visiting your local SSA office, or making the request online.
• Submit a Written Request: You may need to submit a written request or form that clearly states your intention to stop SSI payments. Make sure to include your personal information and any details that explain why you no longer wish to receive benefits.

Step 3: Return to Work and SSI

If your goal is to return to work and stop receiving SSI, there are specific rules and programs designed to help you transition:

• Trial Work Period (TWP): The SSA allows you to work and still receive SSI benefits for a period of time through the Trial Work Period (TWP). During the TWP, you can test your ability to work without losing benefits, even if you earn above the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) threshold. The TWP lasts for up to 9 months.
• Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE): After the Trial Work Period, if your earnings are above the SGA limit, your SSI benefits will stop. However, you can still receive benefits for up to 36 months in certain circumstances, as long as your earnings fall below the SGA threshold.
• Work Incentives Program: The SSA also offers a Work Incentives Program that includes various ways to help individuals transition from SSI to full-time employment. This program includes:
• Medicaid or Medicare coverage
• Impairment-Related Work Expenses (IRWE)
• Subsidies for help with work tasks

Step 4: Consider Transitioning to SSDI

If you were receiving SSI because of a disability but now have the ability to work or earn more money, you may want to apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). Unlike SSI, which is based on need, SSDI is based on your work history and the number of work credits you’ve earned.

• Qualifying for SSDI: If you qualify for SSDI, your benefits are based on your earnings and the Social Security taxes you’ve paid through employment. SSDI benefits are typically higher than SSI benefits and are not dependent on your financial need.
• How to Apply for SSDI: If you’re interested in transitioning from SSI to SSDI, you can apply for SSDI online, over the phone, or by visiting your local SSA office. Your eligibility will be determined based on your work history and disability status.

Step 5: The Impact of Stopping SSI Benefits

Before you make the decision to stop SSI, it’s important to consider how this change may impact your financial situation:

• Loss of Medical Coverage: SSI recipients are typically eligible for Medicaid, which helps cover medical expenses. If you stop receiving SSI benefits, you may lose your Medicaid coverage, although you may be able to transition to Medicare or other healthcare options if you qualify.
• Reduced Financial Assistance: SSI provides monthly financial assistance to help cover basic living expenses. If you stop receiving these benefits, you will need to ensure you have alternative sources of income, such as employment or other government assistance programs.

Step 6: What Happens If Your Circumstances Change?

In some cases, your circumstances may change, and you may need to reapply for SSI. If you find that your health deteriorates, your income decreases, or you experience other changes in your life, you can always reapply for SSI benefits.

• Reapplying for SSI: If you qualify for SSI again, the SSA will review your case and determine your eligibility based on your income, resources, and disability status.
• Changes in Work Status: If you return to work but then find that you cannot sustain employment, you can apply for SSI again, or you may qualify for SSDI if your work history supports it.