Social Security for Americans Overseas: Can You Get Payments Abroad?

If you're a U.S. citizen living or traveling abroad, you can usually keep receiving your Social Security payments.

Here’s a simple guide to understanding who qualifies and how to get your benefits while overseas.

Can You Get Social Security Abroad?

Yes—most U.S. citizens can receive retirement, disability, or survivor benefits while living in another country.

To check your eligibility, use the SSA Payments Abroad Screening Tool. It tells you whether your benefits:

• Continue normally

• Stop after six months

• Have special restrictions based on the country you live in

If you’re in the U.S., visit or call your local Social Security office. If you’re abroad, use SSA’s international contacts list for assistance.

Using Foreign Work Credits

If you worked in another country and don’t have enough U.S. credits, you may still qualify.

Some countries have agreements with the U.S. that let you combine work credits to meet eligibility requirements.

Check if your country has one of these agreements.

Related: How To Appeal a Social Security Decision (Simple Guide for 2025–2026)

How to Apply From Outside the U.S.

You can apply for Social Security benefits online, even if you live abroad. Payments are sent electronically by direct deposit to:

• A U.S. bank account, or

• A bank in a country that has an international direct deposit agreement

Once you start receiving payments overseas, SSA will send you a questionnaire every 1–2 years to confirm you’re still eligible.

If you don’t respond, your payments may stop.

Need Help While Living Abroad?

Contact the Office of Earnings and International Operations (OEIO) for assistance with applications, payment issues, or ongoing benefits.

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