Receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a lifeline for millions who can’t work due to serious medical conditions. After navigating the complex—and often frustrating—application process, getting approved is a huge relief. Considering the Social Security Administration (SSA) denies about 70% of applicants in the initial review, you definitely don’t want to risk losing your benefits now.
Once you’re on SSDI, it’s essential to take proactive steps to protect those monthly payments. If your benefits are stopped, you not only lose financial support—you may also have to start the grueling application process all over again.
Here are five common reasons your SSDI benefits could be interrupted—and what you should do right now to avoid that:
1. You Haven’t Updated Your Personal Information
The SSA handles benefits for millions of people, so keeping your information current is crucial. Missing or outdated details can cause delays or even stop your payments altogether.
Be sure to notify the SSA if:
- You’ve moved and changed your address.
- You’ve switched phone numbers.
- You’ve gotten married, divorced, or changed your legal name.
Life gets busy, and it’s easy to forget small tasks—but keeping your records up to date is key to uninterrupted payments.
2. There’s Been an Increase in Your (or Your Spouse’s) Income
SSDI benefits are based on your ability to work and your income. If your household income increases—whether through a job, investments, or your spouse’s earnings—you need to report it.
Even if you’re only making a little extra on the side, the IRS and SSA will eventually find out through income reporting. Failing to disclose new income could lead to a reduction or complete loss of your benefits.
3. You Changed Your Bank Account
Closed an old bank account or opened a new one? If the SSA tries to deposit your payment into a closed account, the payment will bounce back—and your benefits may be suspended until things are sorted out.
Always notify the SSA about any banking changes so your payments go to the right place without delay.
4. Your Work Activity Has Increased
Earning more money—even part-time or freelance—can affect your SSDI status. The SSA uses a measurement called Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) to determine eligibility.
For 2025:
- The SGA limit is $1,620/month for non-blind individuals.
- For those who are legally blind, it’s $2,700/month.
If your income goes above these limits, even temporarily, it could trigger a review of your benefits. Keep the SSA informed of any changes in your work status.
5. There’s Been a Change in Your Representative Payee
If you have a representative payee—someone who manages your SSDI benefits on your behalf—it’s important the SSA knows who that person is.
Whether a friend, family member, or organization, the SSA must be notified if there’s any change in who’s handling your funds. This ensures your benefits are managed responsibly and without interruption.
How to Report Any Changes
You’ve got a few options:
- Online: Log in to your my Social Security account (or create one if you haven’t yet).
- By phone: Call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213.
- In person: Visit your nearest Social Security office.
Staying in the loop with the SSA and updating them about changes in your life is the best way to keep your SSDI benefits flowing without issues.
