If you’ve suffered a serious injury or illness, you may find yourself navigating the application process for a variety of types of benefits. If you have short- or long-term disability insurance, that may be your first line of defense against serious financial loss if you’re unable to work.
While it’s more difficult (and takes longer) to get approval for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), it can end up being the better option if you’re going to be seriously disabled for the foreseeable future – and possibly permanently.
Too many people wrongly assume that once they’re approved for SSDI benefits, they can’t be taken away. In fact, they can end for a number of reasons. Let’s look at two of the most common ones.
You’re able to start working again
Unless you’re getting benefits for a condition or disability that has little or no chance of improving, you will be expected to provide updates (with documentation from your doctor) periodically. The Social Security Administration (SSA) is interested in whether you can return to work – even if you can’t do the same job you previously had.
If you are able to work and your monthly income is at or above the minimum to be considered “substantial gainful activity” (SGA), your SSDI will end. In 2024, that’s at least $1,550 ($2,590 for those who are blind).
You reach full retirement age
You can’t receive Social Security retirement benefits and SSDI. Therefore, if you get to your full retirement age, which is between 66 and 68 for most working people, your SSDI will end and your retirement benefits will begin. They should be around the same amount.
Dealing with the SSA can be a punishing endeavor for anyone. Trying to do it when you’re not feeling anywhere near 100% can seem impossible. If you have questions or concerns about your benefits or have lost them when you don’t believe you should have, it’s a good idea to get legal guidance.