You’ve FINALLY received your Social Security disability benefits…what a relief!
Now you’re getting mail that states your benefits are being reduced…but why??
Disability benefits can be reduced for several reasons, some of the most common of which are Worker’s Compensation Benefits, Child Support payments, and state or local retirement benefits (like government pensions).
- For Worker’s Compensation, your benefits will be reduced if your WC benefits exceed 80% of your average earnings PRIOR to becoming disabled (your income while you were still working).
- For child support payments, the amount your benefits will be reduced will vary, depending on the State court order in your case. However, you can file for a Support Modification once you become disabled and are likely taking in less money than when you were working.
- For government pensions, if you receive those from work for which you didn’t pay Social Security taxes OR are receiving widow/widower’s benefits, your Social Security benefits will be reduced by 2/3 of your government pension.
You should always report any changes in income to Social Security promptly. Not doing this can result in an overpayment to you, which SSA will always come looking for, no matter how many thousands of dollars or how long ago it was! Never hesitate to reach out to our office if you have questions about benefits!
