Duration of Social Security Disability Benefits (SSDI)

SSDI benefits can last as long as you are disabled and unable to engage in substantial gainful activity (SGA). However, they are not always permanent. The Social Security Administration (SSA) conducts periodic Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs) to determine whether your condition still meets their definition of disability.

• Medical Improvement Expected (MIE): Your case may be reviewed in as little as 6 to 18 months.
• Medical Improvement Possible (MIP): Reviews typically happen every 3 years.
• Medical Improvement Not Expected (MINE): Reviews may occur every 5 to 7 years.

If your condition improves and you are able to return to work, your benefits may stop.

Duration of Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

SSI benefits also last as long as you are disabled and meet income and resource limits. Like SSDI, you’ll be subject to CDRs, and the SSA will reassess your financial eligibility regularly. If your income or resources exceed the allowed limits, your SSI may be reduced or discontinued.

Duration of VA Disability Benefits

VA disability benefits can be lifelong, especially for veterans with permanent and total disabilities. However, the VA may reevaluate your condition, particularly if your disability is not considered permanent. Ratings can increase, decrease, or be continued based on medical evidence.

• If your condition is stable for 5+ years, it’s less likely the VA will reduce your rating.
• After age 55, reevaluations become less common.

Benefits May Convert to Retirement

• SSDI benefits automatically convert to regular Social Security retirement benefits when you reach full retirement age, typically between 66 and 67, depending on your birth year.
• The payment amount generally stays the same, just the classification changes.