SSD
SSD, or Social Security Disability benefits, as will as retirement benefits, stop for people who are in jail for more than 30 continuous days after a conviction. These benefits are referred to as “Title II” benefits. Your checks will stop with the month you entered jail and were convicted. For example, if you were sent to jail on 3/21/01, convicted of a crime on 3/29/01, and the court ordered you to serve a 6-months sentence, your benefits would stop beginning with, the check you receive in April 2001.
Your benefits completely stop until you are released from jail. Once released, you need to contact your local Social Security office with your release papers and apply to get your benefits started. Also, if you are in jail awaiting trial, you will continue to get your Disability or Retirement benefits until you are convicted.
SSI
SSI, or Supplemental Security Income pays monthly checks to people who are 65 or older, or blind, or have a disability and who do not own much or have a lot of income.
If you get a monthly SSI check and you are in jail, your SSI check will stop after you are in jail for a full calendar month. For example, if you were in jail on 3/21/01 and you will stay there to serve a three-month sentence, SSA will stop your SSI check beginning with April 2001. Your monthly SSI check will not start again until you contact your local Social Security office and bring your proof of release from jail with you to reapply for benefits.
Medicare
If you receive Medicare benefits, when you go to jail, your hospital insurance (Part A) continues. However, your medical insurance (Part B) will end unless you pay the monthly premiums. If your Part B coverage ends, you can enroll during the general enrollment period (January – March each year). However, your Part B coverage will not start until July of the year in which you enroll. In addition, you will be responsible for any unpaid past-due premiums and the cost of your Part B coverage may be higher.