Social Security Insurance (SSDI) is a federal program that gives financial support to those who are unable to work due to a disability. In order to qualify for this program, applicants must meet specific criteria such as having a condition that meets Social Security’s definition of disability and they must have enough work history. The question often arises if once you get approved for SSDI, do you get it for life? In this blog, we will answer this question and go over some of the important aspects of SSDI.
Understanding SSDI Benefits
The main eligibility criteria for SSDI benefits is based on a combination of different factors:
- Qualifying Disability: The disability much affect your ability to work for a year or more, or will result in death. It also must prevent you from earning an income above an amount the Social Security Administration calls “substantial gainful activity”. For 2025, substantial gainful activity is considered $1,620 per month or $2,700 if you are blind.
- Work Credits: In order to receive SSDI, applicants must have worked and paid into Social Security through payroll taxes for a certain amount of time. The number of work credits needed depends on the applicant’s age at the time of disability. Typically, 40 work credits are needed, with at least 20 earned in the last 10 years before they became disabled. However, younger workers may not have to meet the same requirements.
Is SSDI Permanent?
The question of whether SSDI is permanent depends on whether the individual remains eligible for benefits. The Social Security Administration performs Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs) to determine if the applicant’s condition improves enough for them to return to work.
The severity of the disability determines how often these reviews occur:
- Every 6–18 months for conditions that are likely to improve.
- Every 3 years for conditions where improvement is possible.
- Every 5–7 years for conditions that are unlikely to improve.
If it is determined during a CDR that your condition has improved enough for you to go back to work, you will likely stop receiving SSDI benefits.
Read More: How to Handle a Continuing Disability Review for SSDI
Other Factors That Can Lead to SSDI Termination
- Returning to Work – If a recipient earns above the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit benefits may be reduced or discontinued. However, programs like Ticket to Work allow beneficiaries to test their ability to work without immediately losing benefits.
- Reaching Retirement Age – When an SSDI recipient reaches full retirement age (FRA) (typically 66–67 years old, depending on birth year), SSDI benefits automatically switch over to Social Security retirement benefits at the same payment amount.
How to Protect Your SSDI Benefits
While sometimes it is unpreventable to maintain SSDI benefits, such as in situations where the condition improves, there are some things you can do to protect your eligibility:
1. Stay Compliant with SSA Reviews and Medical Documentation: Respond to Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs) and any SSA requests for information. Make sure to keep accurate and detailed medical documentation of your disability and its progression.
2. Report Work Activity and Income Accurately: If you attempt to return to work, make sure you let the SSA immediately. Even if you participate in the Trial Work Period (TWP), reporting earnings is very important to maintain your SSDI benefits.
3. Seek Legal Help if Facing a Review or Denial: If the SSA denies your SSDI benefits after a CDR, you can consult a disability attorney to appeal the decision. Legal professionals can help with any SSDI issues that arise and represent you in hearings if necessary.
Learn More: How SSDI Affects Other Benefits: Navigating the Complexities
Protecting Your SSDI Benefits
It is important to keep in mind that if your disability is not permanent, it is likely that your SSDI benefits aren’t either. The SSA’s requirements are put into place to ensure that individuals who truly cannot earn income due to a disability get the financial assistance they deserve. As long as you meet the SSA’s requirements and requests, you can ensure that your benefits remain protected.
If you have questions about your SSDI benefits or need help with a review or appeal, don’t wait, reach out to Tabak Law today to protect your financial security.