How Do I Make Sure My Benefits Move to a New State With Me?

You don’t need to reapply for SSI. It’s a federal program, so it follows you. SNAP and Medicaid are run by each state and don’t transfer, so you’ll apply for both in your new state. Section 811 housing and rental vouchers each have their own application process, covered below.

Do I Have to Reapply for SSI?

No. Just tell Social Security about your move. You should report it no later than 10 days after the end of the month you move. 

Will My SSI Payment Change If I Move?

It might. SSI has two parts: a federal payment that’s the same everywhere, and an optional state supplement that depends on where you live.

• The federal part stays the same. In 2026, the basic federal SSI amount is $994 a month for an individual and $1,491 for a couple. Moving to a new state doesn’t change that.

• The state supplement may change. Some states add their own money on top of the federal amount, called a State Supplementary Payment (SSP). Other states pay nothing extra, so you get only the federal amount. As such, your total payment may go up if you are moving to a state with a higher SSP. It may also go down, if you move to a state with a lower or non-existent SSP.

Inform Social Security of your new address and living arrangement before you move, so they can update your payment.

What About SNAP and Medicaid?

Neither one transfers. Here’s how to handle each:

• SNAP (food benefits): Apply in your new state once you have your new address. You can’t receive SNAP from two states in the same month, so close your old case once the new one starts.

• Medicaid: Apply in your new state as well. In most states, getting SSI qualifies you for Medicaid, but the rules vary, and a number of  states make you file a separate application. Ask about this when you apply.

Don’t cancel your old benefits until your new ones are set up, so you don’t have a gap in coverage.

Both programs are usually handled through the same local office, often called the Department of Social Services or Human Services. Many states have a single combined application for SNAP and Medicaid. Check your new state’s benefits website for details.

How Do I Apply for HUD Section 811 Housing?

HUD is the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the federal agency that oversees housing assistance programs across the country. Section 811 is one of its programs. It helps people with disabilities live independently by pairing affordable apartments with access to support services. 

To be eligible, generally at least one adult in the household must have a disability. The household’s income must also be at or below 30% of the area median income for the newer Project Rental Assistance units (other properties may use different limits). Each state and property has its own rules.

You usually can’t apply to HUD directly. Section 811 works through state housing agencies and specific apartment properties, and many states require a referral from a state health or Medicaid agency.

Some steps you can take, however, include:

1. Apply directly to individual properties. Some Section 811 apartment buildings take applications themselves, but units funded through the newer Project Rental Assistance program are generally filled only by referral. You can search for them using HUD’s online “Find Rental Assistance” tools or by calling your local HUD field office.

2. Ask your Medicaid or health agency. Many states fill Section 811 units through referrals from the state Medicaid or health department. If you have a case manager or social worker, ask whether they can refer you. Some states give priority to people leaving nursing homes or institutions, or at risk of entering one.

3. Contact a Center for Independent Living (CIL). These nonprofits help people with disabilities find housing and apply for programs, and the help is often free. They usually know which local properties have openings.

4. Call your local Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC). They can point you to local housing programs and waiting lists.

5. Talk to a HUD-approved housing counseling agency. They can explain your options and help with paperwork at no cost or low cost.

How Do I Apply for Rental Vouchers?

Apply through your local Public Housing Agency (PHA). HUD’s website has a contact list of PHAs by state.

Waiting lists are often long, and some are closed, so apply to several. It’s worth asking whether the PHA has vouchers set aside for people with disabilities, as well.

Quick Checklist Before You Move

• Tell Social Security your new address and living situation.

• Gather your SSI award letter and ID.

• Look up your new state’s benefits office and housing agency.

• Apply for SNAP and Medicaid as soon as you have an address.

• Get on housing waiting lists early.

Rules vary by state, so confirm the current steps with your new state’s benefits office.