Larry, I have received SSDI since Oct 2016. Due to a rugged contruction career, I'm banged up. DDS, hip degeneration, etc. I believe that when a person that retires, he/she can earn only so much, until the age of 70, & after, can earn without limit. Will the limits imposed on those that receive SSDI benefits ever be allowed to increase, or is the $1180 per month earning limit imposed for life?
Thanks, Larry.

Hi,

Actually, the substantial gainful activity (SGA) amount in 2019 is $1220. $1180 was the SGA amount in 2018. SGA is the upper limit that people receiving Social Security disability (SSDI) benefits can earn without potentially losing their benefits.

People receiving SSDI can earn more than the SGA amount without losing their benefits during their initial 9-month trial work period (TWP). Once your TWP is completed, though, you'll need to keep your earnings below SGA level or risk losing your SSDI benefits.

If you continue to qualify for SSDI until you reach your full retirement age (FRA), your SSDI benefits will convert to regular Social Security retirement benefits effective with the month you reach FRA. At that point, there will no longer be any limit on the amount that you can earn and still be able to receive your full benefits.

Best, Jerry