When faced with a disabling injury or illness, securing your financial future becomes paramount. In the United States, Social Security benefits are a crucial lifeline for disabled individuals, providing much-needed support during challenging times. As you near retirement age, questions may arise about the possibility of collecting both Social Security disability insurance benefits (SSDI) and Social Security retirement benefits simultaneously. In this blog, we will explore the complexities surrounding this issue, the exceptions that exist, and how consulting a Social Security benefits lawyer can help ensure you receive all the benefits you deserve.
Understanding SSDI and Retirement Benefits: Social Security disability insurance benefits are designed to assist Americans suffering from disabling conditions who are not yet eligible to draw from their retirement benefits. These benefits act as "early retirement" funds for those unable to work due to a disability. However, when an individual reaches full retirement age, SSDI benefits are automatically converted to retirement benefits, and they can start drawing from their complete retirement funds.
Can I Receive Disability and Retirement at the Same Time?
The simplest way to say it is, NO. Unfortunately, the vast majority of disabled Americans cannot receive both Social Security retirement benefits and disability benefits at the same time. If you already qualify for SSDI benefits, then these benefits will be converted to retirement benefits when you reach full retirement age.
Of course the exception is if youre receiving early Retirements which we will talk about here shortly.
The "Early Retirement" Exception: While the general rule is that you cannot receive both SSDI and retirement benefits at the same time, there is one significant exception to consider. If you opted for early retirement at the age of 62 before becoming disabled, you might qualify to collect both benefits. If you were receiving less than the full monthly retirement benefit before being approved for disability benefits, you would receive the difference between the amounts. Your lack of income during this period will not count towards your retirement benefits. This exception can be especially beneficial for disabled individuals approaching retirement age.
Eligibility for the Exception: To qualify for the "early retirement" exception, it is crucial to establish that your disability occurred before you began taking early retirement benefits. This point is essential because if the Social Security Administration determines that your disability started after retirement, they will deny your claim for SSDI benefits. Additionally, keep in mind that your full retirement benefit is calculated based on the average monthly income during your 35 highest earning years.
The Decision to File for Early Retirement Benefits: Choosing to file for early retirement benefits while applying for SSDI requires careful consideration. If you believe you qualify for disability benefits and are severely impaired, taking early retirement might be a viable option. Applying for SSDI first to establish your disabling condition and filing for early retirement afterward is a strategy some individuals pursue. During the approval process for SSDI, you would receive 75 percent of your full retirement benefit amount. Upon SSDI approval, you will start receiving the full amount of retirement benefits, along with any back pay owed to you. However, there is a risk involved: if you collect early retirement but are not granted disability benefits, you may receive less than your full retirement amount for the rest of your life.
Seeking Legal Guidance: Deciding whether to apply for early retirement benefits, SSDI, or both requires careful analysis of individual circumstances. This is where the expertise of a Social Security benefits lawyer can be invaluable. An experienced attorney can assess your case, determine the best legal approach, and help you navigate the complexities of the system. They can also gather the necessary medical evidence, prepare for hearings, and ensure your case has the best chance of success.
SSI Benefits and Retirement: Unlike SSDI benefits, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments do not automatically convert to retirement benefits upon reaching retirement age. SSI is funded by federal taxes and is available for low-income elderly and disabled Americans. While SSI recipients can continue receiving benefits even after retirement, they must apply for all other cash benefits they may be entitled to, including SSDI and retirement benefits. Therefore, some individuals may receive both SSI and retirement benefits simultaneously, ensuring a stable financial situation as they enter retirement.
Understanding the interplay between Social Security disability and retirement benefits is essential for disabled individuals nearing retirement age. While the majority cannot receive both benefits concurrently, the "early retirement" exception offers an avenue for some individuals to collect both SSDI and retirement benefits. The decision to file for early retirement or apply for SSDI benefits requires careful consideration, and consulting a Social Security benefits lawyer can provide invaluable guidance. Remember that Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits can be received alongside retirement benefits, providing additional financial support for those in need. By exploring these options and seeking legal expertise, you can maximize your Social Security benefits and secure a more stable financial future.
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