When you turn 18, the Social Security Administration (SSA) reviews your case to see if you still meet the requirements to receive SSI. The rules change when you turn 18, and some people lose their benefits.
START PREPARING NOW for review of your SSI case! Here’s how:
- Keep all of your school records. The Social Security Administration (SSA) needs information from your school when it reviews your case. Keep these papers all together in a safe place.
- Visit your doctors and therapists regularly. SSA needs proof that you are still disabled when you turn 18. It is very important that you get treatment from your doctors regularly so that SSA will have the information it needs. If you have depression or anxiety be sure you are getting treatment for it and taking any medication your doctors prescribe.
- Talk to your OVR representative. The Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR) can give you training and help you apply for jobs after you graduate from high school. You can also usually keep your SSI benefits until you finish any program you do with OVR. Talk to someone at school about how to get involved with OVR.
- Tell SSA if you move. SSA will send you letters when it reviews your case. It is important for them to have your current address so you can respond quickly and avoid missing deadlines.
