Social Security is a federal program aimed at providing financial support to retirees, disabled individuals, and the families of retired, disabled, or deceased workers. SSDI is a key part of this program, offering financial assistance to people unable to work due to a severe disability.
Understanding Social Security and disability benefits can be challenging. Whether you’re planning to apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or want to know how it might affect your current Social Security benefits, this guide will help clarify the essential points.
HOW SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY INSURANCE (SSDI) WORKS
SSDI provides monthly benefits to individuals who have a sufficient work history and have paid Social Security taxes but can no longer work due to a medical condition expected to last at least one year or result in death.
The amount you receive in SSDI benefits is based on your average lifetime earnings before your disability began.
To qualify for SSDI, you must meet specific criteria:
- WORK HISTORY: You need to have worked a certain number of years in jobs covered by Social Security.
- MEDICAL CONDITION: Your disability must meet the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) definition of disability.
How SSDI Affects Your Social Security Benefits
When you begin receiving SSDI, it may impact your other Social Security benefits. Here’s how:
DISABILITY BENEFITS
If you’re already receiving Social Security retirement benefits and become disabled, you may be eligible to switch to SSDI if the SSDI payment is higher. This requires meeting the disability criteria and submitting an application.
FAMILY BENEFITS
Certain family members, such as your spouse and children, might also qualify for benefits based on your work record. The total amount paid to you and your family members is subject to a family maximum limit.
Also read: How Workers Comp Affects Social Security Retirement Benefits
TRANSITION FROM DISABILITY BENEFITS TO RETIREMENT BENEFITS
An important aspect to understand is what happens when you reach full retirement age (FRA). Your SSDI benefits will automatically convert to Social Security retirement benefits at this point. The benefit amount remains the same; the change is mainly administrative.
This ensures there is no interruption in your benefits, and you continue to receive financial support without any hassles.

KEY CONSIDERATIONS AND POTENTIAL IMPACTS
There are several important points and potential impacts to keep in mind when dealing with SSDI and Social Security benefits:
- WORK INCENTIVES AND EARNINGS: SSDI has specific rules about how much you can earn while receiving benefits. Engaging in substantial gainful activity could affect your eligibility.
- COST-OF-LIVING ADJUSTMENTS (COLA): Your SSDI benefits may increase with annual COLA adjustments, helping your benefits keep pace with inflation.
- OVERPAYMENTS: If you receive more benefits than you’re entitled to, you must repay the excess amount. It’s vital to report changes in your situation to avoid overpayments.
WRAPPING IT UP
Understanding how SSDI and Social Security benefits interact is essential for maintaining financial stability if you become disabled. SSDI offers crucial support by providing benefits to those who can no longer work due to a disability. When you reach full retirement age, your benefits will transition smoothly from SSDI to retirement benefits without any change in the amount you receive.
Being informed about how these programs work will help you make the most of the benefits available to you. If you have more questions or need specific guidance, consulting with a Social Security representative or a financial advisor can provide additional clarity tailored to your situation.
VICTOR MALCA – Florida Workers Compensation & Social Security Disability Attorney
Victor Malca P.A. has over 27 years of litigation experience in Workers Compensation and Social Security Disability lawsuits. His experience and continued success when fighting for his clients puts him among the most trusted workers’ compensation attorney’s in Florida. He specializes in representing injured workers on compensation benefit cases and disabled individuals claiming lost social security disability benefits.
Book a free consultation today. Our unwavering advocacy for employee rights and privileges are recognized by our past clients across South Florida.