Duration of Social Security Disability Benefits

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits are provided to individuals who are unable to work due to a qualifying disability. These benefits can last as long as the individual remains disabled and meets the eligibility criteria. However, there are a few important things to consider:

• Until You’re No Longer Disabled: In most cases, SSDI benefits will continue as long as you are considered disabled under the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) rules. If your condition improves and you can return to work, your benefits may stop.
• Full Retirement Age (FRA): When you reach full retirement age (FRA), which varies depending on your birth year (between 66 and 67), your SSDI benefits will convert to retirement benefits. The amount you receive will generally stay the same, but the program will change from disability benefits to regular Social Security retirement benefits.

Review Process and Continuing Eligibility

While SSDI benefits can last a long time, they are subject to periodic reviews by the Social Security Administration to ensure you are still disabled and meet their criteria:

• Medical Reviews: The SSA periodically conducts medical reviews to evaluate whether your condition has improved. The frequency of these reviews depends on the severity of your condition. If your disability is considered to be permanent or long-term, you may only be reviewed every 5 to 7 years. If the SSA determines that you no longer meet the eligibility requirements, your benefits may end.
• Work and Earnings: If you return to work or your earnings exceed the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) threshold, the SSA may stop your benefits. For 2025, the SGA limit is $1,470 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,460 per month for blind individuals.

How Age Affects Disability Benefits

Your age can impact the length of time you receive Social Security disability benefits:

• Before Full Retirement Age: If you are under the age of 66 or 67 (your FRA), you will continue to receive SSDI benefits until your disability ends or until you reach retirement age.
• At or After Full Retirement Age: Once you reach full retirement age, your SSDI benefits will convert to Social Security retirement benefits, and you will no longer receive disability benefits. The amount you receive will be the same as your SSDI amount, but the benefits will be classified as retirement benefits.

What Happens If Your Condition Improves?

If the Social Security Administration determines that your condition has improved and you are no longer disabled, your disability benefits will end. However, you will be given notice, and you may have the right to appeal the decision. Here’s what happens:

• Continuing Disability Review (CDR): If the SSA believes your condition may improve, they will schedule a CDR. If your condition has improved to the point where you can return to work, your benefits will stop. If you disagree with this decision, you can appeal the decision.
• Trial Work Period: If you are able to return to work but still face significant challenges, the SSA offers a Trial Work Period (TWP) that allows you to test your ability to work without losing your benefits. During the TWP, you can earn a certain amount each month and still continue to receive SSDI benefits. If you earn more than the threshold (e.g., $1,050/month in 2025), you’ll use up a trial month. After the trial period, if you continue to work at substantial gainful levels, your benefits may stop.

When Disability Benefits Can Be Extended

There are circumstances in which you might be able to continue receiving benefits for a longer period:

• Special Rules for Certain Disabilities: Some conditions may qualify for longer-term benefits under SSA rules, especially if your disability is permanent or expected to last for a long time. For example, people with terminal illnesses or very severe disabilities may qualify for extended benefits with fewer reviews.
• Disabled Widow/Widower Benefits: If you are the surviving spouse of a person who was eligible for Social Security disability benefits, you may be able to continue receiving benefits after their death.