Life can take you in many directions, and sometimes that means moving to a new state. If you receive SSDI, you may be wondering how to transfer disability benefits to another state, or whether you need to transfer them at all.
In this article, we’ll explain how to transfer disability benefits to another state, as well as what to expect when it comes to taxes and how your healthcare coverage may be affected.
Get the benefits you earned.
Key Takeaways
- SSDI benefits follow you anywhere in the U.S. Because SSDI is a federal program, your benefits automatically transfer when you move to a new state. You only need to report your change of address and any other life changes to the Social Security Administration.
- State taxes and healthcare coverage may change. Most states do not tax SSDI benefits, but a few still do, so it’s important to check local tax laws. Meanwhile, Medicare Part A and B coverage stays the same, but Medicare Advantage, Part D, and Medicaid may require you to enroll in new plans or meet new eligibility requirements in your new state.
- Keeping the SSA updated protects your benefits. Reporting changes, like your move across state lines, ensures your benefits remain accurate and uninterrupted.
In this article about how to transfer disability benefits to another state:
How to transfer disability benefits to another state?
If you receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, you know the program can be complex and filled with nuances. Luckily, transferring your disability benefits across state lines is simple.
Because SSDI is a federal program, your benefits will follow you anywhere in the country. You don’t need to transfer your benefits, but you do need to notify the Social Security Administration (SSA) of your move. Changes to your address, living situation, or household can affect your monthly benefits, so it’s important to keep your information up to date.
The SSA requires you to report any changes to them by the 10th day of the month after your move. For example, if you move on April 13, 2026, you should report your new address by May 10, 2026.
Will your new state tax SSDI benefits?
Reporting your move to the SSA is only one part of relocating while receiving SSDI benefits. You should also understand how state income taxes may affect your disability payments when you move to a new state.
While most states do not tax Social Security disability benefits, a small number tax Social Security income in certain situations. As of 2026, the states that may tax Social Security benefits include:
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Minnesota
- Montana
- New Mexico
- Rhode Island
- Utah
- Vermont
It’s also important to remember that tax rules can change. For example, starting in 2026, beneficiaries living in West Virginia no longer have their SSDI benefits taxed by the state. So, it’s a good idea to check your new state’s tax laws or speak with a tax professional to understand how your benefits may be affected.
Does moving to a new state affect Medicare and Medicaid?
Like with SSDI benefits, Medicare Part A and Part B are federal programs, so your coverage will follow you if you move to another state. However, Medicare Advantage (Part C) and Medicare Part D prescription drug plans are offered through private insurers and are often limited to specific geographic areas. If you move out of your plan’s service area, you may need to enroll in a new plan available in your new state.
On the other hand, Medicaid is a joint federal and state program. Each state operates its own Medicaid program and sets its own eligibility requirements. Because of this, you may need to reapply and meet your new state’s guidelines to continue receiving Medicaid benefits after you move.
If you are eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid, you should contact the Medicaid office in your new state to learn about your coverage options. If you are interested in a Dual Eligible Special Needs Plan (D-SNP), which combines Medicare and Medicaid benefits and may include extra services like dental or vision coverage, you will also need to check with a private plan provider to see what plans are available in your new area.
How Woods & Woods can help
Having a disability shouldn’t mean losing your peace of mind. At Woods & Woods, we help individuals with disabilities connect with legal help. If you’re seeking SSDI benefits, call us today for a free case evaluation.
You worked hard – let us fight for you.
Frequently asked questions
SSDI is a federal program, so your benefits will follow you no matter where you move within the U.S. You do not need to transfer your benefits, but you should report your new address to the Social Security Administration to ensure your records stay up to date.
Yes. It’s important to report any major changes in your situation to the Social Security Administration. This includes changes to your address and living arrangements. Keeping your information up to date helps ensure your benefits continue without interruption.
Lori Underwood
Lori Underwood received her law degree from Northern Kentucky University. She previously practiced Social Security disability and personal injury law and was a juvenile court attorney.
She has been an attorney at
Woods & Woods since 2014.
