At What Age Does Social Security Disability Stop? 

May 29, 2025 | Social Security Disability

At What Age Does Social Security Disability Stop?

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a government disability benefit managed by the Social Security Administration (SSA). SSDI is paid to workers who become disabled and cannot work. A disabled worker must have worked and paid into the system long enough to earn enough credits to qualify for Social Security disability benefits.

When Does Social Security Disability Stop?

Generally, you can receive Social Security disability benefits until you reach the age of 65. At that time, SSDI benefits convert to Social Security retirement benefits. However, some situations could cause Social Security disability benefits to end before age 65.

Things that could stop Social Security disability benefits before you turn 65 years old include:

You Are No Longer Disabled

You must meet the definition of disabled according to the Social Security Administration. 

The SSA definition of disabled is:

  • You are unable to engage in any substantial gainful activity (i.e., work) because of a medically diagnosed mental or physical disability;
  • Your condition has lasted at least 12 months, is expected to last for 12 months, or is expected to result in your death.

The SSA may periodically review your case. If it determines you are no longer disabled, your disability benefits will stop immediately. Individuals must report if their condition changes, and they can return to work.

You Are Sentenced to Jail or Prison

If a court sentenced you to serve time in jail or prison, you could lose your Social Security disability benefits. You cannot receive disability benefits while incarcerated. You must report your sentence to the SSA, and your disability benefits could be terminated if you are sentenced to more than 30 days in jail.

However, once you are released from jail or prison, your disability benefits may begin again. Depending on how long you were in prison, you may need to start the application process from the beginning.

Return to Work

If you return to work, you must notify the Social Security Administration. In some cases, you may continue to receive SSDI benefits even though you return to work. It depends on your earnings and whether you qualify to return to work for a trial period. If you continue to work after the trial period, your disability benefits will likely stop.

When Do SSDI Benefits Convert to Social Security Retirement Benefits?

SSDI benefits automatically convert to Social Security retirement benefits when you reach your full retirement age (FRA), as determined by your birth year. This transition is seamless and does not require any action on your part. The monthly benefit amount typically remains the same.

Full retirement age varies by birth year:

  • 65 for those born in 1937 or earlier
  • Gradually increasing from 65 to 66 for those born between 1938 and 1942
  • 66 for those born between 1943 and 1954
  • Gradually increasing from 66 to 67 for those born between 1955 and 1959
  • 67 for those born in 1960 or later

So, for example, if you were born in 1957, your full retirement age is 66 years and 6 months.

Applying for Social Security Disability Benefits

Many people are denied when they apply for disability benefits through the Social Security Administration. If the SSA denies your disability application, you can appeal. However, you may want to hire a Harrisburg Social Security disability lawyer to file your appeal.

Appealing a disability denial can be time-consuming and complicated. There are specific procedures and deadlines you must follow. If you do not follow the rules, your claim may be closed. In that case, you must file another application from the beginning.

A Harrisburg Social Security disability lawyer can help you with your application and/or appeal to give you the best chance of receiving disability benefits. 

Contact a Social Security Disability Lawyer for a Free Consultation 

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) provides critical financial support to individuals who are unable to work due to a disabling condition. While benefits generally continue until you reach your full retirement age, there are circumstances that can cause them to end earlier, such as medical improvement, incarceration, or a return to work. 

Understanding these transitions is essential to protecting your benefits and planning for the future. If you’re applying for SSDI or facing a denial, working with an experienced Social Security disability lawyer can greatly improve your chances of success. Legal guidance ensures that deadlines are met, paperwork is accurate, and your case is as strong as possible.

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