Your Social Security Disability Benefits Will Change Classification, Not Amount
If you receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), your payment amount does not change simply because you turn 65 [1, 5, 8]. Instead, the Social Security Administration (SSA) reclassifies your benefits from 'disability' to 'retirement' when you reach your specific Full Retirement Age (FRA) [1, 5]. This transition is automatic and does not interrupt your monthly payments [1, 5]. Depending on your birth year, your FRA may be 66 or 67 [1, 5, 8].
What to Expect During the Automatic Conversion
The process is seamless and requires no action from you, as the SSA handles the paperwork [1, 5]. A notable change is the end of Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs), which cease once your benefits are converted [1]. If you have been on SSDI for at least 24 months, your Medicare coverage will continue without interruption [1, 5]. If you turn 65 before your 24-month waiting period for Medicare is up, your eligibility for Medicare begins based on your age [1, 5].
A Different Story for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Recipients
For those receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI), the rules are different because it is a needs-based program [1, 3, 5]. At age 65, your eligibility category changes from 'disabled' to 'aged,' but your monthly amount does not automatically change [1, 5].
Financial Reevaluation at Age 65 for SSI
Upon turning 65, the SSA will re-evaluate your income, resources, and living arrangements to confirm you still qualify [1, 5]. Any other income, such as a small retirement benefit, could affect your SSI payment [1, 5].
Potential for Dual Benefits
Some individuals may receive both a Social Security retirement benefit and an SSI payment [1, 5]. The SSA counts the retirement benefit as income, which may reduce your SSI payment [1, 5]. It is essential to report any new income to the SSA to avoid overpayment issues [1, 5].
Understanding Full Retirement Age (FRA) vs. Age 65
In 1983, a law gradually increased the FRA beyond 65, so your specific FRA depends on your birth year [1, 5, 8]. The table below shows how your birth year determines your FRA [1, 5, 8].
| Birth Year | Full Retirement Age |
|---|---|
| 1943–1954 | 66 |
| 1955 | 66 and 2 months |
| 1956 | 66 and 4 months |
| 1957 | 66 and 6 months |
| 1958 | 66 and 8 months |
| 1959 | 66 and 10 months |
| 1960 and later | 67 |
Why is the SSDI-to-Retirement Amount the Same?
The SSDI benefit amount is calculated to be the same as your full retirement benefit at your FRA [1, 5]. This calculation is why the amount remains unchanged during the conversion [1, 5]. Claiming SSDI before retirement can be advantageous because it allows you to access a full, unreduced benefit amount sooner than if you were to claim early retirement benefits at age 62 [1, 5].
What to Do If You're Concerned About Your Benefits
For accurate information regarding your personal circumstances, especially if you have an unusual work history or receive other benefits, it is best to consult the Social Security Administration directly [1, 5]. Their official website provides various resources and tools [1, 5]. For more information on the transition from disability to retirement, visit the official Social Security Administration website [1, 5].
Conclusion
Turning 65 does not automatically change your SSDI payment amount [1, 5, 8]. For SSDI recipients, the conversion to retirement benefits happens at your specific FRA with no monthly payment change [1, 5]. For SSI recipients, your category shifts to 'aged,' and your financial eligibility is re-evaluated, but the amount may not change [1, 5]. The conversion process is automatic and seamless, ensuring a steady income stream [1, 5]. Understanding these details is crucial for financial planning as you age [1, 5].
