Reviewed on: April 22,2016
Law & Court Questions - Legal Terms

Does Social Security pay benefits to prisoners?

Does Social Security pay benefits to prisoners?

Social Security or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments programs prohibit payments to most inmates.
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Answered by a former federal inmate · 14+ years advising families
✓ Verified answer April 22,2016 · Law & Court Questions - Legal Terms
1
Social Security or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments programs prohibit payments to most inmates. They will suspend your Social Security benefits if you are confined to a jail, prison or other penal institution for more than 30 continuous days due to a criminal conviction. Although you can’t get monthly Social Security benefits while you are confined, we will continue to pay benefits to your dependent spouse or children as long as they remain eligible. If you get SSI, they will stop your payments after you are imprisoned for a month. If you use their pre-release procedure, they may be able to reinstate your benefits starting with the month you are released. SSI recipients who are confined 12 consecutive months or longer, must reapply for SSI and again be approved.
Accepted Answer Date Created: April 22,2016
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About this answer: This response was prepared by InmateAid’s editorial team in consultation with former inmates who have direct experience with the federal correctional system. InmateAid has served families of the incarcerated since 2012. This is general information only — not legal advice. Last reviewed April 2016.