Reasons Why Social Security Disability Benefits Can Be Stopped or Reduced

Medical Improvement

One of the main reasons Social Security Disability benefits can be stopped is if the Social Security Administration (SSA) determines that your medical condition has improved to the point where you are no longer considered disabled. The SSA conducts Continuing Disability Reviews (CDR) periodically to assess whether beneficiaries still meet the SSA’s disability criteria.

• Frequency of Reviews: The SSA typically reviews cases every 3 to 7 years, depending on the nature of the disability. For example, those with disabilities that are expected to improve may have more frequent reviews than individuals with permanent or long-term conditions.
• What Happens During a CDR: During a CDR, the SSA will assess your medical records, treatment history, and work activities to determine if your condition has improved enough for you to return to work. If they conclude that you can now work, your SSDI benefits could be terminated.

Returning to Work (Substantial Gainful Activity)

If you return to work and earn an income above the SSA’s Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit, your benefits can be stopped. In 2025, the SGA threshold is:

• $1,470 per month for non-blind individuals
• $2,460 per month for blind individuals

If you earn more than these amounts, the SSA may conclude that you are no longer disabled and may stop your benefits. However, there are work incentives that allow you to test your ability to work without immediately losing benefits, such as:

• Trial Work Period (TWP): You can work for up to 9 months while earning above the SGA limit without your benefits being stopped. After the trial work period ends, the SSA will assess whether you can continue working full-time.
• Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE): If you continue to work and earn above the SGA limit after the trial period, you may still be eligible for benefits for up to 36 months, depending on your situation.

Failure to Follow SSA Requests

If you fail to cooperate with the SSA’s requests, such as attending a medical examination or providing necessary documentation, your benefits could be reduced or stopped. The SSA may require you to undergo a medical examination or submit updated medical records as part of the Continuing Disability Review process. Failure to comply with these requests may lead to a suspension of benefits.

Exceeding the Resource or Income Limits (SSI Only)

If you receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI), your benefits may be stopped or reduced if your resources or income exceed the program’s limits. SSI is a needs-based program, and the SSA sets limits on the amount of income and resources you can have while still qualifying for benefits. As of 2025:

• Income Limit: For individuals, the income limit is $794 per month, and for couples, it is $1,191 per month. Any income beyond this could lead to a reduction or termination of SSI benefits.
• Resource Limit: SSI also has limits on the resources (assets) you can have. For an individual, the resource limit is $2,000, and for a couple, it’s $3,000. Resources include things like savings accounts, property, or investments.

Incarceration or Felony Conviction

If you are convicted of a felony or are incarcerated for a certain period, your SSDI or SSI benefits may be suspended. The SSA will stop payments if you are serving a prison sentence for more than 30 days. However, once you are released, your benefits can resume.

Death

While this may seem obvious, if you pass away, your Social Security Disability benefits will stop. The SSA may also stop benefits if the recipient has been receiving payments as a representative payee and the payee is no longer able to manage the funds.

How to Avoid Losing Your Benefits

While there are circumstances that can lead to a reduction or stoppage of your benefits, there are steps you can take to protect your eligibility:

• Keep the SSA Informed: Notify the SSA of any changes in your medical condition, work activities, or living situation. Transparency is crucial to ensure that your benefits are not stopped due to misunderstandings.
• Attend Continuing Disability Reviews: If you are asked to attend a Continuing Disability Review, make sure to cooperate fully. Missing medical exams or failing to submit requested documentation can lead to a loss of benefits.
• Utilize Work Incentives: If you plan to return to work, take advantage of the Trial Work Period and Extended Period of Eligibility. These programs allow you to test your ability to work without losing benefits immediately.
• Keep Records Up to Date: Maintain accurate medical records that demonstrate the severity and ongoing nature of your disability. These records are essential in case your benefits are reviewed.