Social Security Disability (SSDI/SSI)

Social Security Disability benefits fall into two main programs: SSDI and SSI. While both provide monthly financial support to individuals with qualifying disabilities, the programs operate very differently.

SSDI Social Security Disability Insurance

SSDI is an insurance-based program for individuals who have worked and paid Social Security taxes.

Key features include:
Based on your work history and earnings record
No income or asset limits
Eligible for Medicare after 24 months of SSDI benefits
Payments may continue even if you live abroad, depending on citizenship and country

Most working-age Americans, including veterans, qualify for SSDI if they paid into the system long enough before becoming disabled.

SSI Supplemental Security Income

SSI is a needs-based program for individuals with limited income and resources.

Because SSI has residency restrictions, most individuals living abroad are not eligible to receive payments unless they fall under very narrow exceptions.

How Disability Benefits Work When You Live Abroad

Living overseas adds complexity to Social Security disability benefits, but many Americans continue receiving SSDI without interruption — including those living in Japan and other countries.

Important considerations include:
Citizenship matters: U.S. citizens in most countries can continue to receive SSDI, but non-citizens face additional restrictions.
Country-specific rules: Some countries allow payment of SSDI, while others do not.
Medical evidence abroad: The SSA may require updated medical documentation or exams, which can sometimes be completed locally.
SSI is almost never payable abroad: If you receive SSI and move outside the U.S., payments typically stop after 30 days.
Appeals and applications: You can apply for SSDI or appeal a denial even while living overseas, but the process may require additional steps

We help you understand the rules, prepare evidence, maintain eligibility, and resolve issues with SSA while living abroad.

Support for Those Living in Japan

If you reside in Japan — including Okinawa or mainland regions — special rules and procedures apply to SSDI eligibility, medical documentation, and ongoing compliance.

For more detailed guidance, visit:

Frequently Asked
Questions

Can I file a VA disability claim while living in Japan?

Yes. VA disability is a federal benefit available to eligible veterans worldwide. You can file, attend exams, and receive payments from Japan.

How do C&P exams work in Japan?

The VA uses contract examiners (VES, QTC, LHI) to conduct exams in Japan. Exams may be in-person, via telehealth, or records-based depending on your claim.

Do I need to fly back to the U.S. for my claim?

No. The entire process — filing, exams, appeals — can be handled from Japan.

What if my medical records are in Japanese?

We help you get records translated and presented clearly for VA raters. Japanese records can absolutely support your claim when handled correctly.

How do I get paid if I live overseas?

VA disability payments are deposited directly to your bank account. You can use a U.S. bank or, in many cases, a Japanese bank.

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