How Long Does Social Security Disability Last

According to the SSA, disabled workers received the benefits, with an average payment of $3,822 per month in 2024. However, these benefits are not necessarily permanent. This means - the Social Security Administration conducts Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs) to determine if the candidate still meets the eligibility for the benefits.

“Does SSDI last forever?” Well, not always. While some conditions are permanent, others may improve over time, leading to the termination of SSD benefits. The rules and regulations around SSD are very complex. Hence, it is important to understand the review process and legal options.

If you’re concerned about your eligibility, it is advisable to contact an SSD benefits lawyer. They will help you understand your legal options and guide you through the process.

How Long Does Social Security Disability Last?

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) provides financial support to individuals who can no longer work due to a disabling condition. However, these benefits don’t always last forever. While some continue receiving payments for life, others may have their benefits terminated due to several reasons.

The SSA (Social Security Administration) reviews the cases periodically to determine whether a recipient still meets the eligibility criteria for the benefits. For many people, SSDI supports their basic needs, such as medical bills, housing, and daily living costs at the time of disability.

The duration of social security disability benefits depends on several factors, such as -

Medical Improvement

An improvement in the medical condition may lead to the termination of SSDI benefits.Medical disability is divided into three categories  -

• Medical Improvement Expected (MIE), under which the cases are reviewed every 6-18 months.
• Medical Improvement Possible (MIP), under which the review takes place every 3 years.
• Medical Improvement Not Expected (MINE), under which the review occurs every 5-7 years.

If the medical reports show that the individual is deemed fit to work, benefits may be discontinued. However, if the disability persists - the benefits will keep coming in.

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Returning To Work

SSDI is for assisting disabled individuals to manage expenses, but recipients can also re-enter the workforce through SSA’s Ticket To Work Program. The SSA offers a Trail Work Period (TWP), which allows beneficiaries to test their ability to work for 9 months without compromising on the benefits.

However, if they earn above Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) levels - which is $1,160- they may no longer qualify for the benefits. However, those who struggle to maintain employment due to their disability may be eligible for continued benefits.

Reached Retirement Age

SSDI benefits automatically convert into Social Security Retirement benefits once a recipient reaches full retirement age (FRA), which is 67 years for those born after 1960. At this age, they won’t receive social security benefits. Instead, they’ll receive retirement benefits.

The amount generally remains the same so that the disabled individual won’t have to struggle financially. Unlike SSDI, the retirement benefits are not based on disability status, meaning the SSA will no longer conduct disability reviews once the transition occurs.

Compliance With SSA Rules And Reviews

Failure to comply with SSA rules can also lead to benefit termination. Hence, it is important to report changes in income, medical updates, and employment status to the SSA. If the recipient fails to provide accurate information, benefits may be suspended or revoked.

Also, missing a scheduled Continuing Disability Review (CDR) can trigger an automatic cessation of benefits. Fraudulent claims - such as working under the table while receiving SSDI - can lead to serious consequences. It also includes repayment of the benefits and legal penalties.

Incarceration In Jail Or Prison

Apart from medical condition improvement, incarceration can also lead to suspension of SSDI payments. If a recipient is convicted of a crime and remains in jail for more than 30 consecutive days - the benefits will be temporarily stopped.

The SSA does not pay benefits to incarcerated individuals as they are no longer considered eligible under program rules. However, it does not lead to permanent loss of benefits. Once the individual is released from the jail or prison, they can apply to have their SSDI benefits reinstated.

Note: The recipients must notify the SSA, provide the necessary documentation, and meet the eligibility requirements again. 

When Do Social Security Disability Benefits Stop?

Many recipients of SSDI benefits wonder - How long can you stay on SSDI? That varies! However, for several individuals, as mentioned earlier, it depends on the individual’s circumstances. For some, the benefits may continue for ages and even decades, provided they meet the eligibility criteria set by the SSA. In some cases, the benefits last till the person reaches the retirement age. 

Hence, a scheduled review is done to check for eligibility, which all the individuals receiving the benefits must meet. The review occurs at different intervals, depending on whether the SSA expects medical improvement.

Some individuals may receive the benefits for only a few years, while others with permanent disabilities may receive SSDA for 20 years or more. Another factor that influences the duration of SSDI is - eligibility for other benefits. 

In certain cases, individuals may qualify for additional support through Supplemental Security Incomes (SSI) if they have limited income and resources. While SSDI itself has no strict time limit, any change in the medical condition, employment status, or other personal circumstances can lead to the termination of the benefits.

How To Keep Your SSDI Benefits?

Though you can receive the benefits till you reach retirement age, it’s important to take action to ensure that you continue to receive SSDI benefits for the remainder of the time. Here’s how you can do that -

Stay Compliant With The SSA Reviews

The SSA conduct a CDR review to determine if you still qualify for the SSDI. The reviews occur every 6 months to 7 years, depending on whether your condition is expected to improve. Always respond to SSA notices and provide updated medical records to avoid benefit suspension. 

Report Any Changes In Your Condition Or Income

It is important to understand the SSA’s Trial Work Period (TWP) rules. Earnings above SGA levels may impact your benefits. So, always keep in touch with your local SSA attorney in Sacramento. They’ll help you understand the rules and regulations and adhere to them. Also, if the SSA decides to send you to an examination with one of their doctors, ensure that you do not miss them!

Follow Your Prescribed Medical Treatment

The SSA expects the recipient to follow and adhere to the medical treatment protocol. If you refuse treatment without any valid reason, the SSA may assume your disability is no longer severe, potentially leading to benefits termination. Hence, always attend medical appointments and keep records of ongoing care.

The SSDIs can be challenging to comprehend. So, if you need assistance, searching for “SSDI eligibility consultations near me" can connect you with professionals who can help you protect your benefits. Consult an experienced Social Security attorney in Sacramento to remain qualified for SSDI benefits.

Permanent VS. Temporary Social Security Disability Benefits

Feature	Temporary Disability	Permanent Disability
Duration	Expected to improve within a defined period.	Expected to last indefinitely or result in death.
SSA Relevance	Generally not covered by SSA disability programs (like SSDI).	Primary focus of SSA disability programs like SSDI.
Benefit Purpose	Income replacement during a recovery period.	Ongoing support for those unable to work long-term.
Return to Work	Expectation of returning to work after recovery.	Condition prevents sustained work.
Benefit Sources	Employer-provided short-term disability, state programs, workers' compensation.	Government programs like SSDI and SSI, workers compensation.
Medical evaluations	Focuses on the expected recovery timeline.	Focuses on the severity and long-term impact of the condition.
Workers Compensation	Covered within workers compensation programs for disabilities accrued on the job.	Covered within workers compensation programs for disabilities accrued on the job.

Takeaway

SSDI benefits do not last indefinitely and may stop if you no longer meet the eligibility criteria. The SSA conducts reviews which assess medical improvement. If the condition seems to be improved, the benefits may be terminated.

In addition, if you return to work and earn more than $1,160, which is the Substantial Gainful Activity limit or reach full retirement age, which is 67 - the benefits may be stopped. Moreover, non-compliance with the SSA rules can also result in termination, but if you think there must be some misunderstanding, you can always appeal decisions.

Find out who can assist with your SSDI benefits application and renewals.

Need SSDI Benefits Review Help In California? Contact Hadley And Fraulob!

You don’t have to worry about your SSD benefits being revoked. Our law firm will help you file the SSD application. Also, we help you appeal every SSA denial. From applying to informing the SSA to pay you benefits under the Compassionate Allowance Rules and requesting a hearing with an Administration Law Judge (ALJ) - we help you with everything that might come as an obstruction.

We have won 20,000+ cases and have several years of experience. Also, we can answer all your questions, review your cases, and ensure your worries stay at bay while you enjoy the benefits.

Need Help with SSDI Benefits? Get in touch with Hadley And Fraulob for expert advice!