You Can Lose Your SSDI Benefits: Know What To Do

It can be a shock to receive a letter from the government instead of your usual benefits. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits can be removed or suspended for a variety of reasons. Here are some common reasons and what can be done.

• Your medical or mental health condition improves. The Social Security Administration (SSA) determines that your medical condition has improved to the point where you are able to work, and your SSDI benefits may be suspended or terminated. If you disagree with the decision, you can request a review or file an appeal. This type of issue can arise as the result of a continuing disability review or a tip from someone. A continuing disability review can call for medical exams every so often to check on a claimant's condition. 
• You are earning above the SGA amount. If you are earning income that exceeds the SSA's threshold for substantial gainful activity (SGA), your SSDI benefits may be reduced or terminated. If you can return to work but cannot earn more than the SGA limit, you may be eligible for a trial work period or other work incentives that can allow you to gradually increase your earnings while still receiving benefits. Learn more about this by contacting the SSA.
• Failure to comply with SSA requirements. If you fail to comply with SSA requirements, such as reporting changes in your medical condition or income, your benefits may be suspended or terminated. It's important to keep the SSA informed of any changes that could affect your eligibility for benefits. Don't ignore mail from the SSA or miss deadlines for providing information so that you won't have your benefits interrupted. 
• Incarceration or institutionalization occurs. If you are incarcerated or institutionalized for a certain period of time, your SSDI benefits may be suspended. Once you are released, you may be eligible to have your benefits reinstated. The assumption is that your needs for housing, food, and more are covered by your living status. 

If your SSDI benefits are removed or suspended, it's important to take action as soon as possible. You can file an appeal or request a review of the decision. Working with an experienced SSDI attorney can help ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the benefits you are entitled to. Don't just assume that you cannot fight against an unjust loss of benefits, speak to a Social Security lawyer about your case today. 

Reach out to a Social Security disability attorney to learn more.