Understanding Supplemental Security Income
SSI Spotlight on Special SSI Rules for Children of
Military Personnel Living Overseas
2008 Edition

Most people who receive SSI benefits and leave the United States for 30 days or more are no longer eligible to receive SSI benefits. However, there is a special rule for the children of military personnel.

A child may continue to get SSI benefits or apply for benefits while overseas if the child:

	is a citizen of the United States; and
	is living with a parent who is a member of the U.S. Armed Forces assigned to permanent duty ashore anywhere outside the United States.

If your child is receiving SSI benefits and you receive military orders to move overseas, contact your local Social Security office or call 1–800–772–1213 before you leave the United States.

You must be able to tell us:

	when you expect to report to your duty station overseas;
	when you expect your child to join you;
	your mailing address at your new duty station; and
	any information you have about military allowances (e.g., housing allowances, rations allowances, etc.) at your new duty station.

If you are a member of the U.S. Armed Forces who is already stationed overseas and think your child may be eligible for SSI benefits, contact the U.S. Embassy, the nearest U.S. Consular Office, or write to:

Social Security Administration
Attn: SSI Military Children Overseas Coordinator
1 Frederick Street, Suite 100
Cumberland, Maryland 21502

When you contact us, be sure to give us your current address, telephone number, and your child's name and Social Security Number.

You should report any change in income, resources, or address for a parent or child in the household to us within 10 days after the month in which it occurs.

Also, remember to report:

	if your child who receives SSI benefits moves;
	if other people move into or out of your home; or
	if you leave the Armed Forces and remain overseas.