International Programs
Payments Outside the United States
Generally, Social Security restrictions prohibit the payment of retirement or disability benefits to, or on behalf of, persons in this country.
However, SSA has established a special procedure that permits payment of retirement or disability benefits to certain eligible persons in this country. Before you leave the U.S., you should contact the nearest Social Security office. The people in that office will give you information to help you decide whether you might be eligible for payment. When you go to this country, contact the nearest Federal Benefits Unit and tell the people in that office that you want to receive Social Security benefits while you are in the country. The people in that office will assist you with requesting payment. The Embassy or Consulate will send the request to SSA. SSA will let you know whether we can pay you benefits while you are in this country.
Related Information
More Information
If you have questions about your individual claim and you are in the United States, please call or visit your local Social Security office. If you are outside the United States, see our list of Contacts for Services outside the U.S..