Navigating benefits can be confusing, and many Americans wonder: can you get both Social Security and disability at the same time? As of October 2025, new rules, payment changes, and policy proposals are shaping how these programs work together. Understanding these updates is essential if you currently receive benefits or are planning to apply soon.
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Understanding How Social Security and Disability Work Together
When people talk about receiving both Social Security and disability, they usually mean one of two things:
- Getting Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) at the same time.
- Receiving Social Security retirement benefits and disability benefits, though this typically changes once you reach full retirement age.
The most common scenario is receiving SSDI and SSI simultaneously, which is called “concurrent benefits.” This happens when:
- You’ve worked and paid into Social Security long enough to qualify for SSDI.
- Your SSDI benefit amount is low enough that you still meet the SSI income and resource limits.
Key Changes in 2025 Affecting Benefits
End of Paper Checks for Social Security and Disability Payments
Starting October 2025, the Social Security Administration (SSA) stopped sending paper checks. All Social Security, SSDI, and SSI payments now require direct deposit or a prepaid debit card. Those who haven’t switched may face payment delays.
Identity Verification Rules Restored
Earlier in 2025, phone-based identity verification was temporarily cut, making it harder for some people to complete applications. After public backlash, SSA reversed the decision, allowing phone verification for disability and other benefits.
Proposed Tightening of SSDI Eligibility
A major proposal aims to change how age is considered during disability evaluations. Currently, applicants over 50 often get favorable consideration due to reduced job flexibility. The proposal would remove or raise this age advantage, making it harder for some older applicants to qualify for SSDI.
SOAR Program Federal Support Ended
Federal funding for the SSI/SSDI Outreach, Access & Recovery (SOAR) program ended in mid-2025. This program helped vulnerable populations apply for and keep disability benefits. States now manage support on their own, which could create access differences depending on where you live.
Cost-of-Living Adjustment and Medicaid Thresholds
The 2025 Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) increased Social Security, SSDI, and SSI benefits. Additionally, income limits for Medicaid “While Working” programs were raised, making it easier for some beneficiaries to work without losing healthcare coverage.
Receiving Both SSDI and SSI: How It Works
If you qualify for SSDI and SSI at the same time, you’ll receive both, but they interact:
- SSDI is calculated first based on your work history.
- SSI is then reduced by the amount of SSDI you receive.
- If your SSDI is less than the SSI federal benefit rate, SSI “tops up” the difference.
- If your SSDI is higher than the SSI maximum, you won’t get SSI.
Example:
- 2025 maximum federal SSI amount = $967/month.
- If your SSDI benefit is $600, SSI may pay an additional $367.
- If your SSDI is $1,100, it exceeds SSI limits, so no SSI top-up applies.
Working While Receiving Both Benefits
Working doesn’t automatically disqualify you, but it can affect your benefits:
- For SSDI, there’s a Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit. In 2025, this is expected to be around $1,530 per month for non-blind individuals. Earning more than this may reduce or end SSDI benefits.
- For SSI, any income can reduce payments according to specific formulas, though some exclusions apply.
- SSDI has a Trial Work Period, allowing you to test working for several months without immediately losing benefits.
Impact of Recent Policy Changes
Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) Repeal
The repeal of the Windfall Elimination Provision in mid-2025 increased benefits for many people who previously had their Social Security reduced due to pensions from non-covered employment. This could increase SSDI amounts and affect SSI eligibility calculations.
Potential Eligibility Reductions
If the proposed SSDI eligibility tightening becomes law, fewer older adults may qualify. This would directly reduce the number of people able to receive concurrent Social Security and disability benefits.
Trust Fund Solvency Pressures
Social Security’s trust funds are under increasing pressure, with projections suggesting earlier depletion than previously estimated. While immediate cuts haven’t been announced, these pressures could lead to reforms that impact how concurrent benefits are structured in the future.
Steps to Take if You’re Trying to Receive Both
- Stay Informed on Policy Proposals: Rules may change, so keep track of updates throughout 2025.
- Check Your Eligibility for Both SSDI and SSI: SSDI depends on work history; SSI depends on financial need.
- Report Any Changes Promptly: Changes in income, resources, or medical status must be reported to SSA to avoid overpayments.
- Understand Work Rules: If you decide to work, monitor earnings carefully to avoid unintentional benefit loss.
- Look Into State SSI Supplements: Some states offer additional payments, increasing your total monthly amount.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I receive Social Security retirement and SSDI at the same time?
No. Once you reach full retirement age, your SSDI benefit automatically converts to a retirement benefit. You cannot receive both at once.
2. Does receiving SSDI disqualify me from SSI?
Not always. If your SSDI benefit is low and you meet SSI financial limits, you can receive both through a supplemental payment.
3. How much income can I earn without losing benefits?
For SSDI, stay below the SGA limit (around $1,530/month for non-blind recipients in 2025). SSI benefits adjust based on income, with reductions following SSA’s formula.
If you currently receive benefits or plan to apply, keeping track of these changes will help you make informed decisions. The question “can you get both Social Security and disability” is more important than ever in 2025, and understanding the latest rules can help maximize your financial stability.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or medical advice. For personalized guidance, consult a qualified professional or contact the Social Security Administration directly.
