Full Retirement Age and Disability Benefits

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1. Over Full Retirement Age: Can I Still Collect Social Security Disability Benefits?

REVIEWED BY

C. William Kenny

March 03, 2025

Board certified by National Board of Trial Advocacy

Over Full Retirement Age: Can I Still Collect Social Security Disability Benefits?

As you approach or pass full retirement age, you may wonder whether you are still eligible to receive Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits. This question is common among individuals who have reached this age but are still unable to work due to a disability. 

Understanding Social Security Disability Benefits

Social Security Disability benefits are available to individuals who are unable to work due to a disability that is expected to last for at least one year or result in death. To qualify, you need to have earned enough work credits by working and paying Social Security taxes. These benefits are designed to provide financial support for people who have a disability and are unable to engage in substantial gainful activity.

Full retirement age is the age at which you are eligible to begin receiving your full Social Security retirement benefits, which varies depending on your birth year. For those born in 1960 or later, full retirement age is 67. 

Can You Still Collect Disability After Full Retirement Age?

Yes, you can still collect Social Security Disability benefits after reaching full retirement age, but it is important to understand how your benefits will change.

When you reach full retirement age, your SSD benefits will automatically convert to Social Security retirement benefits. While the name of the benefit changes, the amount you receive will not change. In other words, the amount you were receiving through SSD will continue as retirement benefits, but the classification of those benefits changes because you are now entitled to receive your full retirement benefits.

There is no need to reapply or undergo additional medical reviews once you turn 67 or reach full retirement age; you simply continue to receive the same amount in benefits.

What Happens to Your Eligibility After Full Retirement Age?

Once you reach full retirement age, you can no longer apply for SSD benefits. Social Security Disability is intended for those under full retirement age who are unable to work due to a disability. Once you are eligible for full retirement benefits, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will consider you to be at an age where retirement benefits are appropriate.

What If You Have Been Denied Disability Before Reaching Full Retirement Age?

If you were denied Social Security Disability benefits before reaching full retirement age, you may still be eligible for early retirement benefits. Being deemed disabled by the SSA allows an individual to collect their full retirement early due to disability keeping them from working. 

Consult with a Disability Lawyer

If you are over full retirement age and have been receiving Social Security Disability benefits, there is no need to worry about losing your financial support. Your SSD benefits will simply convert to retirement benefits, ensuring that you continue receiving the same amount without interruption. However, once you reach full retirement age, you can no longer apply for SSD benefits, so it is important to understand your situation and plan accordingly.

If you are under full retirement age and considering disability benefits, contact the qualified Social Security Disability attorneys of Berger and Green who can help you get the benefits you deserve.