- Instructions
- Benefit Types
- Your Rights
- Reasons for Termination
- Arbitrary Termination
- Appeal Process
- Documentation
- Legal Protections
- Navigating Policies
- Benefit Review Notices
- Community Support
- Legislation/Policy Changes
- Maintaining Eligibility
- Reporting Changes
- SSA Interviews
- Attorney Representation
- Become a Representative
Reasons for termination:
Social Security Administration (SSA) benefits can be terminated for various reasons. Here are the most common causes for termination:
The primary reason for benefit termination is returning to work and engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA). As of 2025:
SSDI recipients earning more than $1,620 per month may lose benefits after the trial work period.
SSI recipients exceeding the income limit of $967 per month for individuals or $1,450 for couples may lose benefits.
If a beneficiary’s health improves to the point where they can work again, their benefits may be stopped. The SSA conducts periodic Continuing Disability Reviews to assess medical improvement.
When SSDI beneficiaries reach full retirement age (between 65 and 67, depending on birth year), their disability benefits automatically convert to retirement benefits.
Benefits are typically suspended after 30 days of imprisonment and can be reinstated upon release.
Beneficiaries may lose benefits for:
Not following prescribed treatment plans.
Failing to report changes in circumstances or income.
Not participating in required medical evaluations.
SSI recipients may lose benefits if their resources exceed the allowed thresholds.
Benefits naturally terminate upon the death of the recipient. Understanding these reasons can help beneficiaries maintain their eligibility and avoid unexpected termination of their SSA benefits.