SSDI Automatically Converts to Retirement at Full Retirement Age

If you're receiving SSDI and reach your full retirement age (FRA)—which is typically between 66 and 67 depending on your birth year—your SSDI benefits will automatically convert to retirement benefits. The amount generally stays the same, and there’s no interruption in payment. You will not receive both SSDI and retirement checks at the same time.

This is because SSDI is essentially an early payment of your full retirement benefit, given due to disability. Once you reach FRA, you are no longer considered disabled by the Social Security Administration for benefit purposes—you’re considered retired.

Can I Apply for SSDI While Collecting Early Retirement?

If you began collecting early retirement benefits (before FRA) and later became disabled, you may be eligible to apply for SSDI. If approved, SSA may increase your monthly benefit amount to what you would have received at full retirement age.

This is called “disability freeze”, and it protects you from the reduction penalty that comes with early retirement. You won’t receive both payments at the same time, but SSDI would replace your reduced retirement benefit until you reach full retirement age.

Why Consider SSDI if You're on Early Retirement?

Filing for SSDI while on early retirement in Utah may result in:

• Higher monthly payments
• Access to Medicare sooner (after 24 months on SSDI)
• Possible back pay and retroactive benefits

However, you must meet the medical and work credit requirements to qualify.

Things to Remember in Utah

• You cannot double dip—SSDI and retirement benefits will not be paid at the same time
• SSDI will convert to retirement at full retirement age automatically
• You may be eligible to apply for SSDI if you’re already on early retirement and your disability began before or shortly after retirement