I was born in Puerto Rico, leaving when I was six. My entire work and tax paying history has been in the United States. How will my benefit be calculated and awarded if I continue to reside in the United States once I have claimed my benefit for Retirement? Does the benefit amount change if I relocate to Puerto Rico, or any other country during Retirement?

Hi,

Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, so residing there would be no different than living in one of the 50 United States as far as Social Security rules are concerned. Residing in a foreign country wouldn't reduce your benefit rate, and as a U.S. citizen you can draw your benefits in the vast majority of foreign countries. There are a few countries, however, where Social Security benefits can't be paid, such as Cuba & North Korea. And, there are additional countries where you can't receive Social Security auxiliary or survivor benefits unless you meet certain conditions. For more specific information on receiving U.S. Social Security benefits in another country, refer to the following Social Security publication: https://www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10137.pdf.

Best, Jerry