Understanding the Differences Between Social Security Disability and Social Security Retirement Benefits
If you’re unsure whether SSDI or Social Security retirement benefits apply to you (or if your disability claim has been denied), our dedicated disability attorneys can help you understand your options.
When it comes to Social Security, the terms and programs can be confusing. Many people wonder: What’s the difference between SSDI and Social Security retirement benefits?
At Daggett Shuler, our Social Security Disability attorneys help disabled persons understand their options and guide them through the application process. If you’re applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or nearing retirement age, understanding how these benefits work can help you make informed decisions about your financial future.
What Is SSDI?
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) provides monthly benefits to individuals who are unable to work due to a severe medical condition or impairment. To qualify, you must have:
- A medical condition that meets the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) definition of disability
- Enough “work credits” earned through your past employment and payment of Social Security taxes
SSDI is an insurance program you’ve paid into while working through FICA taxes, usually deducted from your paycheck. If you become disabled before retirement age, SSDI replaces part of your lost income.
What Are Social Security Retirement Benefits?
Social Security retirement benefits are payments you receive once you reach retirement age, based on your lifetime earnings and contributions to Social Security. You can start collecting reduced benefits as early as age 62, but your full retirement age (FRA) depends on your birth year (for most people today, it’s between 66 and 67). Waiting until you reach your FRA, or even delaying until age 70, can increase your monthly payment.
How SSDI and Retirement Benefits Work Together
If you receive SSDI, those payments convert to retirement benefits once you reach full retirement age. You won’t need to file a new application, and the amount will remain approximately the same; it simply transitions from one program to the other. SSDI is designed to protect you if you’ become unable to work before you reach retirement age.
Which Benefit Should You Apply For?
The answer depends on your situation:
- If you are unable to work due to a medical condition and are under full retirement age, you may be eligible for SSDI.
- If you’ve reached retirement age, you can apply for Social Security retirement benefits instead.
If you’re unsure which program applies to you (or if your disability claim has been denied), our dedicated disability attorneys can help you understand your options and guide you through the appeals process.
Get Help from Daggett Shuler
At Daggett Shuler, we know how important your Social Security benefits are to your financial security and peace of mind. Our experienced SSDI attorneys, led by a Board-Certified Specialist in Social Security Disability Law, help clients secure the benefits they’ve earned. If you have questions about applying for SSDI or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), or if you’re fighting a denial, speak with us for free today.
Contact us today by submitting an online form or calling our office at (336) 724-1234 to receive a complimentary case evaluation.
