Step 1: Understand the Implications of Stopping Benefits

Before you take steps to stop your Social Security Disability (SSD) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, it’s important to fully understand the implications:

• Return to work: If you are returning to work, the SSA has a trial work period where you can test your ability to work without losing your SSDI benefits. However, if you earn above a certain amount for an extended period, your benefits may be discontinued.
• Medical improvement: If your medical condition improves to the point where you are no longer disabled according to SSA standards, your benefits may stop automatically. The SSA will conduct periodic reviews to determine whether you still meet the requirements.
• Voluntary cessation: If you voluntarily want to stop receiving benefits, you can request to have them stopped, but this may impact your ability to restart them in the future if needed.

Step 2: Contact the Social Security Administration (SSA)

The first step in stopping your Social Security Disability benefits is to contact the SSA directly. You can do this through several methods:

• Call the SSA: Reach out to the SSA National Helpline at 1-800-772-1213 to inform them of your decision and ask about the process for stopping your benefits.
• Visit your local SSA office: If you prefer to speak in person, you can visit your local Social Security office. Use the SSA’s office locator tool on their website to find the nearest office.
• Online: You may also be able to manage certain aspects of your disability benefits through your My Social Security account.
  

Make sure to have your Social Security number and other identifying information on hand to speed up the process.

Step 3: Request to Voluntarily Terminate Your Benefits

If you are certain that you want to stop your SSDI or SSI benefits, you can request to voluntarily terminate them. To do this:

• Submit a written request to the SSA indicating that you no longer wish to receive benefits. Include your full name, Social Security number, and a clear statement that you wish to stop receiving benefits.
• You may also need to provide additional documentation, depending on your circumstances (such as proof of employment if you are returning to work).
• Keep a copy of your request for your records in case you need to follow up.

Step 4: Returning to Work and the Impact on Benefits

If you are returning to work and want to stop receiving Social Security Disability  benefits, you should be aware of the Trial Work Period (TWP). The TWP allows you to work for up to 9 months  without losing your SSDI benefits, as long as your earnings are below a certain threshold.

• Earn above the monthly threshold: If you earn above the Trial Work Period earnings limit ($1,470 per month in 2025), the SSA may discontinue your benefits after the trial period ends.
• Notify the SSA: If you return to work and earn over the TWP limit, be sure to inform the SSA so they can evaluate your situation and adjust your benefits accordingly.

Step 5: Understand the Reinstatement Process

If you voluntarily stop your disability benefits, you may find that your health condition worsens, and you need to apply for benefits again in the future. While you can reapply for benefits if your disability returns, there are some important things to consider:

• If you stop your benefits and later reapply, you may have to go through the full application process again, including medical reviews and evaluations.
• If your condition worsens, you will need to prove that you still meet the SSA’s disability criteria in order to have your benefits reinstated.
• There may be a waiting period before your benefits are reinstated, and in some cases, the SSA may require you to undergo a disability review to assess your current condition.

Step 6: Medical Reviews and Cessation of Benefits

If your Social Security Disability benefits are being stopped due to medical improvement, the SSA may inform you of a scheduled medical review. The SSA typically conducts a review every 3 to 7 years, depending on the nature of your disability. During the review, the SSA will evaluate whether your condition has improved enough to allow you to return to work.

• If your condition improves and you no longer meet the SSA’s disability criteria, your benefits will stop.
• If your condition remains severe, you can continue to receive benefits.

It’s important to attend any medical review appointments and provide all requested information to prevent an unnecessary interruption of benefits.

Step 7: Consult a Disability Lawyer if Needed

If you are unsure about stopping your disability benefits or if you are facing complications with your case, consulting a disability lawyer can be very helpful. A lawyer can help you understand the potential long-term consequences of stopping your benefits and can assist you with:

• Understanding how returning to work may impact your benefits.
• Navigating the reinstatement process if you need to reapply for benefits.
• Resolving issues related to the medical review process or benefits cessation.

A disability lawyer can ensure that you are making an informed decision about whether to stop your disability benefits and can help you avoid future complications.