What Happens to Your SSDI Benefits When You Reach Full Retirement Age?
Are you nearing retirement age and wondering the impact that it would have on your Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits?
My name is Kaitlin Wildoner, and I’m an attorney who helps disabled clients obtain their disability benefits as quickly as possible so they can focus on getting better.
Today, we’re going to talk about whether SSDI benefits change once you reach full retirement age.
Do SSDI Benefits Change at Full Retirement Age?
When an SSDI recipient reaches their full retirement age—as determined by the Social Security Administration—their disability benefits can transition to Social Security retirement benefits.
Your full retirement age varies depending on your birth year:
- For example, the full retirement age is typically 66 if you were born between 1943 and 1954.
- If you were born between 1955 and 1960, your full retirement age increases gradually.
- It is 67 for those born in 1960 or later.
Will My Monthly Benefit Amount Change?
The transition from SSDI benefits to retirement benefits usually does not change the total benefit amount that you receive each month. However, the source of the benefits shifts—from disability to retirement—once you reach full retirement age.
How Does Work Affect My Benefits After Retirement Age?
At your full retirement age, there are typically no more restrictions on the amount that you can earn from work without impacting your benefits.
- Prior to reaching full retirement age, your SSDI benefits could be reduced or terminated if you earned income above the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit.
- Additionally, after you reach full retirement age, you are no longer subject to continuing disability reviews. These are the periodic reviews that the agency conducts to determine whether or not you are still disabled under their rules.
Will the SSA Notify Me About the Transition?
Yes—the Social Security Administration should notify you in advance about the transition from SSDI benefits to retirement benefits and provide any information about any new benefit amount, if applicable.
What If I Have Questions About My Specific Case?
It’s recommended that you consult with the Social Security Administration directly if you have questions or need clarification about how your benefits will change at retirement age—especially if you plan to continue working or have concerns that are specific to your situation. Remember that individual circumstances may vary.
Thanks so much for watching!
If you’re disabled and unable to work, we’re here to help. Click this scheduling link or call us directly to schedule a free consultation where we’ll discuss your case and see how we can help you.
