Social Security Q-and-A

Question: My sister has been completely disabled since birth. She gets Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Our grandfather died recently and left her a little money. Will this extra money stop her SSI benefits?

Answer: It depends on the amount of the inheritance. The inheritance money is considered income for the month she received it. She will need to report the income and we will adjust her benefit for the month if we need to. If she keeps the money into the next month, it then becomes a part of her resources. To get SSI benefits, a person is limited to $2,000 in total resources, although there are exceptions. Have your sister call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) to report the inheritance. We will tell your sister how her eligibility could be affected. For more information, visit our Web site at www.socialsecurity.gov.

Question: My mom receives Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. She soon will be going to live with my brother. Does she have to report the move to Social Security?

Answer: Yes. She should report to us within 10 days any change in living arrangements. The change could affect her benefit. Failure to report the change could result in a penalty being deducted from her SSI benefits. Also, we need her correct address so we can send correspondence. Please have her call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). Or, she can report the change by mail or in person at a Social Security office. Visit our Web site for more information at www.socialsecurity.gov.

© 2009, McClatchy-Tribune News Service.