SSDI Confirms: 2 Major Reasons You Could Lose Your Social Security Benefits Forever!

The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides crucial support through programs like Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) to individuals unable to work due to disabilities.

However, it’s essential to understand that certain actions or changes in circumstances can lead to the permanent termination of these benefits.

Below, we delve into the two primary reasons confirmed by the SSA that could result in the loss of your SSDI payments forever.

1. Engaging in Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)

The SSA defines Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) as a level of work activity and earnings that demonstrate a person’s ability to engage in competitive employment.

In 2025, the SGA threshold is set at $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 per month for those who are blind.

If your earnings exceed these amounts after completing a Trial Work Period (TWP), the SSA may determine that you are no longer eligible for disability benefits.

Trial Work Period (TWP):

• Duration: A total of 9 months within a rolling 60-month period.
• Earnings Threshold: In 2025, any month where earnings exceed $1,160 counts as a trial work month.
• Outcome: After exhausting the TWP, if your earnings continue to surpass the SGA level, your SSDI benefits will be terminated.

2. Medical Improvement

SSDI benefits are granted based on the severity of your medical condition. The SSA conducts periodic Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs) to assess whether beneficiaries remain disabled.

If a CDR concludes that your condition has medically improved to the point where you can engage in SGA, your benefits will cease.

Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs):

• Frequency: Depends on the expectation of medical improvement:
  • Medical Improvement Expected (MIE): Typically reviewed within 6 to 18 months.
  • Medical Improvement Possible (MIP): Reviewed approximately every 3 years.
  • Medical Improvement Not Expected (MINE): Reviewed every 5 to 7 years.
• Process: Involves a thorough review of medical records, and may include consultations or examinations.
• Outcome: If evidence shows significant improvement in your condition, the SSA will terminate your benefits.

Additional Factors Leading to Benefit Termination

Beyond the primary reasons mentioned, other circumstances can also result in the loss of SSDI benefits:

• Failure to Report Changes: Not informing the SSA about changes in your work activity, medical condition, or other relevant factors can lead to benefit termination.
• Incarceration: Being convicted of a crime and incarcerated for more than 30 consecutive days will result in suspension of benefits.

Maintaining eligibility for SSDI benefits requires adherence to SSA guidelines and prompt reporting of any changes in your circumstances.

Understanding the factors that can lead to the termination of benefits is crucial to ensure continued support.

If you have questions or need clarification regarding your benefits, it’s advisable to contact the SSA directly or consult with a qualified professional.

FAQs

What happens if I earn above the SGA limit during my Trial Work Period?

During the Trial Work Period, you can test your ability to work without affecting your SSDI benefits, regardless of how much you earn. However, after completing the 9-month TWP, if your earnings exceed the SGA threshold, your benefits may be terminated.

How often does the SSA conduct Continuing Disability Reviews?

The frequency of CDRs depends on the likelihood of medical improvement:

• Medical Improvement Expected (MIE): Every 6 to 18 months.
• Medical Improvement Possible (MIP): Approximately every 3 years.
• Medical Improvement Not Expected (MINE): Every 5 to 7 years.

Can I appeal the SSA’s decision to terminate my benefits?

Yes, if you disagree with the SSA’s decision to terminate your benefits, you have the right to appeal. It’s important to file the appeal within the timeframe specified in the termination notice to ensure your case is reconsidered.