Can You Receive SSDI While Living Abroad?

✅ Yes, you can receive SSDI payments while living in Thailand since it is not on the restricted country list (which includes North Korea and Cuba).
✅ Your payments will continue as long as you remain eligible for disability benefits.

1. Requirements to Keep SSDI While in Thailand

• Report Any Changes in Your Condition: If your health improves and you’re no longer disabled, you must inform the Social Security Administration (SSA).
• Complete Periodic SSA Reviews: The SSA may request medical updates to verify that you still qualify for disability benefits.
• Avoid Working Above the Income Limits: SSDI has strict rules about earning money while receiving benefits.
• Maintain a U.S. Bank Account (Recommended): The SSA can deposit funds directly into some foreign bank accounts, but having a U.S. bank account makes it easier to receive and manage payments.

2. How to Receive Payments in Thailand

• Direct Deposit: You can receive payments in a Thai bank via International Direct Deposit (IDD) if your bank is in the SSA's IDD program.
• U.S. Bank Account: The SSA can deposit benefits into your U.S. account, and you can withdraw funds in Thailand.
• Paper Checks (Not Recommended): SSA does not always mail checks to foreign addresses.

3. How to Notify SSA of Your Move

📌 Fill out Form SSA-21 (Supplement to Claim of Person Outside the U.S.).
📌 Update your address with the SSA to continue receiving important notices.
📌 Contact the Federal Benefits Unit (FBU) at the U.S. Embassy in Thailand for assistance.

4. Will SSDI be Taxed in Thailand?

• U.S. Taxes: If you're a U.S. citizen, SSDI is still subject to U.S. taxes depending on your total income.
• Thai Taxes: Thailand generally does not tax foreign-sourced income if you do not remit it to Thailand within the same year. (May change if staying more than 180 days/year)