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Plan Ahead: When Does SSDI Convert to Retirement Benefits?

A wooden figure in a wheelchair holding coins and a wooden figure of an elderly person with a cane stand on either side of a white piggy bank.

Understanding when Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) converts to retirement benefits can be confusing. SSDI is strictly for disabled workers, while retirement benefits are for people who have retired from the workforce.

At O’Neil and Bowman Disability Group, we help clients throughout the Mid-Atlantic region understand what to expect as they near retirement age. Let’s break down what happens to Social Security Disability benefits when retirement benefits kick in.

What Happens to SSDI When You Turn 65?

If you’re receiving SSDI, your benefits will automatically convert to Social Security retirement benefits when you reach full retirement age (FRA). For many people today, FRA is not 65 years old, but 66 or even older. However, the benefit transition is still seamless, and you do not need to take any action.

Your benefit amount will generally remain the same. It will just be classified as retirement benefits rather than disability benefits.

Knowing what age SSDI converts to retirement payments is essential for your financial planning.

Collecting Full and Early Retirement Benefits

You may be asking, “Will my SSDI change when I turn 62?”

People can start collecting Social Security retirement benefits as early as age 62. You should still be able to receive SSDI in addition to early retirement benefits until you reach full retirement age. However, applying for early retirement means you’ll receive reduced benefits.

Your FRA is when you can receive full retirement benefits. It varies based on your birth year. For example, those born in 1960 or later won’t reach full retirement age until they turn 67 years old. It’s important to know your expected retirement age so you can plan for your future accordingly.

Who Can Receive Retirement Benefits?

Social Security retirement benefits are available to individuals who have worked and paid into the Social Security System. Over the years, they acquire work credits. Only people who have earned a sufficient number of work credits can qualify for SSDI and retirement benefits.

Family benefits are available to certain family members, such as spouses or ex-spouses, of people who are eligible for SSDI or Social Security.

What Happens to SSI When You Reach Retirement Age?

When Supplemental Security Income (SSI) beneficiaries reach retirement age, they may become eligible for Social Security retirement benefits. However, they must have some work history that qualifies them.

SSI is different from SSDI. While SSI does provide benefits to disabled individuals, eligibility is based on financial need instead of work history. It should also be noted that SSI benefits may be reduced or adjusted based on new income coming from Social Security.

How O’Neil and Bowman Disability Group Can Help

Navigating the transition from Social Security Disability to retirement benefits can be complicated. At O’Neil and Bowman Disability Group, we’ll help you understand the future of your benefit payments so you can make informed decisions.

For over 29 years, our team has handled all types of Social Security Disability cases. We can provide personalized assistance tailored to your needs. Whether you have questions like, “Can you get retirement and disability benefits at the same time?” or “Am I eligible for Social Security?” we can provide clear answers.

Contact Us

Contact us for a free case evaluation. Let us guide you through the process of what happens to SSDI when you reach retirement age. We’ll make sure you’re fully informed about what the future holds.

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