When do Social Security Disability Benefits Stop?

There is never a concrete date universal to everyone concerning Social Security disability benefits. This includes a start date, stop date, or transition to Social Security Retirement benefits (this happens when you reach full retirement age, which varies depending on the year you were born). Sometimes, your benefits stop due to a disability review in which it is determined that your medical condition has improved, or you have returned to work. The short answer is this: it’s different for everyone. We have compiled a list of possibilities that could affect your benefits for your convenience here:

Reasons your SSD Could Stop or be Affected

• If you give false information
• If your work income is considered “substantial”
• If you are incarcerated
• If you are receiving other disability benefits such as workers’ compensation
• If the SSA decides you are no longer disabled
• If you relocate and the SSA is unable to contact you
• If you get married
• If a disabled child is no longer under your care (temporary separations may not affect benefits, but you must still have responsibility for the child

This is not comprehensive, and thus doesn’t list every single reason that your benefits could change or stop. It’s crucial if your work status changes to contact the SSA to notify them of your hours worked as well as other income-related questions they may have. Also, if your benefits have stopped due to a Continuing Disability Review, make sure you consult a disability advocate in order to file an appeal appropriately.

Retirement

Some important definitions to keep in mind in reference to the SSA are:

• Retirement age means the age that you begin receiving SS retirement benefits
• Stop work age is when you leave the labor force and can no longer work – this is based on your “highest 35 years of earnings and your age when you start receiving benefits”

We mentioned earlier that your retirement age in which you can start receiving Social Security Full Retirement benefits is dependent upon the year you were born. The typical “age 65” we all hear is only applicable to those born on or before 1937. There is a calculator on the SSA’s website where you can check your full retirement age.

It is an unfortunate truth, but the full retirement age is increasing—all the more reason to prepare accordingly, and realize SS benefits aren’t designed to fully support you.

Key Takeaway

While there are a multitude of reasons your benefits can stop or be adjusted, don’t fret; especially if you are transitioning into Social Security Retirement benefits. As long as you are aware of your amount, and stay in communication with the SSA, you will remain informed regarding your benefits. This isn’t always foolproof—that’s why we here at Disability Experts of Florida are available to help you with questions! Whether it is your benefits or the benefits of a loved one or child, we are accessible as a valued resource. Don’t let your benefits stop: contact a representative today, and see what we can do for you!