Getting Past the Myths
Myth 7: If My Benefits Stop, I'll Never Get Them Again
If you are not able to continue working, or if you need to work fewer hours, you might be worried about having to go through the long process of applying for benefits again. Luckily, there are some helpful rules that allow your benefits to be start again without your needing to reapply for benefits.
SSI
- If you are on the SSI 1619(b) program and your income drops below a certain level, you will be eligible for SSI cash benefits again without needing to re-apply. For information on this, Chat with a Hub expert.
- Once you are no longer eligible for SSI or 1619(b), you may be eligible for Expedited Reinstatement (EXR). If your SSI benefits stopped because of your earnings from work, and you were eligible for SSI within the last five years, you can use EXR to begin getting SSI benefits again. Read DB101's SSI and Work page for more information.
SSDI
- Once again, the Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE) can help you here. The EPE begins the first month after your Trial Work Period ends and continues for 36 months in a row. During this time, if you earn less than the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) level, you will get your SSDI payment that month. If you earn more than the SGA level, you will not get an SSDI check. No new application is required to receive your SSDI benefits if your earnings are less than SGA. For more information, read DB101's SSDI and Work page.
- You may also be eligible for Expedited Reinstatement (EXR). If your Social Security benefits stop because of your earnings, you can use EXR to get your SSDI benefits re-started, if you stopped working within five years of the time your benefits were terminated. Read DB101's SSDI article to learn more.
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