Once you've been approved for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, it's essential to understand how to maintain them. In this article, we'll explore what you need to know about keeping your SSDI benefits, including reporting requirements, continuing disability reviews, and how changes in your circumstances can impact your benefits.
Reporting Requirements
As an SSDI beneficiary, you are responsible for reporting certain changes in your circumstances to the Social Security Administration (SSA). Some of the changes you must report include:
- Changes in your work status or income
- Changes in your living arrangements
- Changes in your marital status
- Receipt of other disability benefits
- Improvements in your medical condition
Failing to report these changes can result in overpayments or suspending your SSDI benefits.
Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs)
The SSA conducts Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs) to ensure that SSDI beneficiaries still meet the eligibility criteria for disability benefits. CDRs typically occur every three to seven years, depending on the severity of your condition and the likelihood of improvement.
Medical CDRs
A medical CDR evaluates your current medical condition to determine if you still meet the SSA's definition of disability. If your condition has improved and you no longer meet the criteria, your benefits may be discontinued.
Work CDRs
A work CDR reviews your employment and earnings to determine if you are engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA). Your SSDI benefits may be suspended or terminated if you earn above the SGA threshold.
Changes in Circumstances
Certain changes in your circumstances can affect your SSDI benefits. Some examples include:
Returning to Work
If you return to work or earn above the SGA threshold, you may lose your SSDI benefits. However, the SSA offers work incentives, such as the Trial Work Period (TWP) and the Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE), to help you transition back to work without immediately losing your benefits.
Receiving Other Disability Benefits
If you receive other disability benefits, such as workers' compensation or private disability insurance, your SSDI benefits may be reduced or offset. It's crucial to report any additional disability benefits to the SSA to avoid overpayments.
Changes In Marital Status
Getting married, divorced, or widowed can impact your SSDI benefits, especially if you receive benefits as a disabled spouse or adult child. Notify the SSA of any changes in your marital status to ensure your benefits are calculated accurately.
Frequently Asked Question
1. How often do I need to report changes in my circumstances to the SSA?
You should report any significant changes in your circumstances, such as changes in work status, living arrangements, or marital status, to the SSA as soon as possible.
2. How often are continuing disability reviews conducted?
Continuing disability reviews are typically conducted every three to seven years, depending on the severity of your condition and the likelihood of improvement.
3. Can I return to work without losing my SSDI benefits?
Yes, the SSA offers work incentives like the Trial Work Period (TWP) and Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE) to help you transition back to work without immediately losing your benefits. However, if your earnings exceed the substantial gainful activity (SGA) threshold after these periods, your SSDI benefits may be suspended or terminated.
4. How do changes in marital status affect my SSDI benefits?
Changes in marital status, such as getting married, divorced, or widowed, can impact your SSDI benefits, especially if you receive benefits as a disabled spouse or adult child. It's essential to notify the SSA of any changes in your marital status to ensure your benefits are calculated accurately.
5. What should I do if my medical condition improves while receiving SSDI benefits?
If your medical condition improves while receiving SSDI benefits, you should report the improvement to the SSA. The SSA may conduct a medical continuing disability review to determine if you still meet the eligibility criteria for disability benefits. If your condition has improved to the point where you no longer meet the criteria, your benefits may be discontinued.
Maintaining your SSDI benefits involves staying informed about reporting requirements, participating in continuing disability reviews, and understanding how changes in your circumstances can affect your benefits. By being proactive and complying with SSA regulations, you can ensure that your SSDI benefits continue to provide the financial support you need.
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