Can I Still Collect Social Security If I Move to Costa Rica?

Yes — U.S. citizens can collect Social Security while living in Costa Rica. The U.S. government fully supports overseas payments to Americans residing in eligible countries, and Costa Rica is one of them.

1. How Payments Are Received

Most retirees choose:

• Direct deposit to a U.S. bank

• ATM withdrawals in Costa Rica

• Online money transfers when needed

You can also set up international direct deposit in some cases.

2. Costa Rica Does Not Tax U.S. Social Security

This is a major advantage.

• Costa Rica taxes only local income, not foreign income

• Your Social Security remains untouched

3. U.S. Tax Rules Stay the Same

Your Social Security tax obligation depends on:

• Your total annual income

• Your filing status

But moving abroad does not stop your payments.

4. Social Security Helps with Residency

Your SS income qualifies you for:

Pensionado Residency

Requirement:

• $1,000/month guaranteed income
  Your Social Security check meets this requirement.

5. No Need to Return to the U.S.

As long as you:

• Maintain updated contact information

• Complete any required verification forms
  You can stay in Costa Rica permanently and still receive benefits.

Bottom Line

Yes — you can live in Costa Rica and collect Social Security with zero issues.

Use CitizenCR to streamline your application.

Download the CitizenCR app for Pensionado residency tools and expert support.