Social Security Disability benefits can be a financial lifesaver in your time of need. Securing these resources isn’t always as easy as it seems, though, since you have to prove certain elements of the law that are specific to your medical condition. And even after you obtain disability benefits, you have to be cognizant of the fact that they can be ceased when certain events occur. We want to look at those triggering events in this blog so that you have a better understanding of when your disability benefits can be put at risk and what you can do to protect them.
When can Social Security Disability benefits be stopped?
There are a few circumstances under which the payout of disability benefits can be ceased. This includes when:
- You’re deemed to no longer be disabled: Although to obtain disability benefits you’ll likely have to show that your condition is expected to last for a significant period of time, be permanent or result in death, your condition can markedly improve over time with the right treatment. If your health recovers to the point that you’re able to work, then the government will probably reevaluate your condition and seek to cut off your disability benefits. Depending on your medical condition, you could be subjected to review as soon as 18 months after the onset of your disability. So, if you’re up for reevaluation, make sure you have medical evidence that speaks to the severity of your condition, your need for ongoing care and how your condition negatively impacts your ability to engage in substantial employment.
- You earn too much: To be considered “disabled” under the law, you have to be incapable of earning a certain amount of income. If you engage in work activities that pay you beyond that threshold amount, then you’re benefits will likely be stopped. So, if you’re going to engage in work, make sure you understand your rate of pay and how it could impact your benefits. You don’t want to overdo it, rush back to work and throw yourself into a financial predicament when you’re unable to continue the receipt of disability benefits.
- You engage in criminal activity: Your benefits can be lowered or completely cutoff if you wind up embroiled in a criminal investigation. Typically, benefits will stop if there’s a warrant out for your arrest, you’re incarcerated after a criminal conviction or you’re found to be in violation of the terms of your parole or probation. So, make sure you stay on the right side of the law if you want to keep receiving your disability benefits.
- You ignore the government: The government will periodically request information from you about your medical condition. If you ignore them and fail to provide the requested information, then you could throw your financial support into jeopardy. Make sure you stay up-to-date on your communications with the Social Security Administration, and be sure to provide them with whatever information they may request.
Advocate to secure and retain the benefits you need
Your overall stability is on the line when you fight for Social Security Disability benefits. And the fight may continue until such point that you no longer need benefits. Therefore, you be prepared to protect your interest every step of the way, even after you initially secure the benefits you deserve. If you want help advocating for yourself in your disability case, then now is the time to start thinking about what that assistance looks like and where you can find it.
