Q: I started collecting a reduced SS benefit at age 62. I later applied for a disability benefit and was granted one at age 63.5. I have read that at full retirement age (FRA), the Disability Benefit reverts to a FRA benefit. I am now age 70. Can I take small sedentary jobs without affecting my SS Benefit? --HS via email
A: Yes, you can.
You've understood the rules correctly. After you reach your full retirement age -- in your case, 66 years old -- your Social Security disability benefit automatically becomes a retirement benefit.
You still receive the same amount every month. (A Social Security Disability benefit is equal to your full Social Security retirement benefit, regardless of the age at which you qualify to receive it.) But after you turn 66, your monthly check is paid by the Social Security Administration Retirement Trust Fund instead of the Disability Trust Fund.
Since a retirement benefit is based on your age, rather than on your disability, you're no longer subject to the disability work rules. And since you're over your full retirement age, you can work without losing any of your benefit regardless of the amount you earn. (For more information about these rules, read What you Need to Know When You Get Social Security Disability Benefits.)
Please send your questions to [email protected]. I'm sorry I can't respond personally to every email. Questions are only addressed online.
Comments
You can follow this conversation by subscribing to the comment feed for this post.