I am a caregiver to my disabled granddaughter. Does that count as earned income?
Full question: I just turned 65 and my husband passed away seven months ago at age 66. He was collecting Social Security Disability Insurance, SSDI. The Social Security Administration withheld the first two months of my benefits because I made too much money. My only income is from being caregiver to my granddaughter who is…
Read MoreCan I receive SSDI benefits if I also receive a pension?
Full question: Two years ago, I left my job and took an early retirement with pension due to muscular dystrophy. My pension is half of what I made monthly when working and considered going back to work. I am at a point in my life due to my disease that I’m not able to go…
Read MoreDo Medicaid Waiver payments for taking care of my disabled adult child count as SGA?
Full question: Will Medicaid Waiver payments for taking care of my disabled adult child count as SGA (Substantial Gainful Activity), and therefore cause me to lose SSDI benefits? Hi there, You can learn more at this IRS website about how Medicaid Waiver payments may be excludable from income. Best of luck, Martha
Read MoreI currently receive disability benefits. Will my benefits decrease when I reach FRA because of my earnings history?
Hi there, If you are collecting Social Security disability insurance, SSDI, you will still collect the same amount at full retirement age, but the benefit will be considered a retirement benefit and paid from a different SSA trust fund. Take care, Martha
Read MoreCan my disabled adult child switch from SSDI based on her record to SSDI based on my record?
Full question: My adult unmarried child has a disability that started before age 22 and qualifies for SSDI. Based on her work record she has 40 quarters, and a monthly income below the SGA limit. If she starts receiving SSDI based on her work record, can she then reapply once I start drawing Social Security…
Read MoreWill the increase in minimum wage in 2024 affect my SSDI benefits?
Full question: Hi Martha, I collect SSDI benefits each month and work part-time. The Minimum wage will increase in 2024. Will this affect my SSDI benefits? Hi there, Starting in 2024, SSDI recipients will be allowed to earn up to $1,550 monthly from a job without putting their benefits at risk. This is up from…
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