There are several legal updates and policy changes being made to Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits in 2024. These changes will impact millions of Americans who rely on these benefits. Below is an overview of some of the key SSD changes going into effect this year, and how to proceed if you’ve been denied your Social Security disability appeal.
Overall Increase in Benefit Amount for SSI in 2024
Over 71 million Americans will receive a 3.2 percent increase in their SSI benefits in 2024, according to the Social Security Administration (SSA). This cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) is tied to the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W).
Increase in Maximum Earnings Amount & Other Related Limits
Several earnings limits related to Social Security benefits are increasing in 2024:
- The maximum earnings subject to the Social Security tax has risen to $168,600.
- The earnings limit for workers younger than full retirement age has increased to $22,320.
- The earnings limit for those reaching full retirement age in 2024 is now $59,520.
- There is still no limit for those who reached full retirement age prior to 2024.
Changes to Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) Levels
To maintain eligibility for disability benefits, you must be unable to engage in substantial gainful activity (SGA). The 2024 SGA limits are:
- $2,590 per month for blind individuals
- $1,550 per month for non-blind individuals
Adjustments to Trial Work Period Rules
The Trial Work Period allows SSDI recipients to enter the workforce while still receiving benefits. In 2024, the monthly threshold to trigger the Trial Work Period has increased to $1,110 in earnings, up from $1,050 in 2023.
Contact Merryl Jones, Second Chance Lawyer to Request a Free Case Evaluation with a Social Security Disability Lawyer
If you have any questions about how you might be impacted by these new SSD policies in 2024, or have been denied your Social Security disability appeal, it’s important to connect with an experienced Social Security disability lawyer. They can help ensure you understand all the updates and how they might influence your current or future benefits.
Contact Merryl Jones, Second Chance lawyer to get a free case evaluation.
