Russell Gloor addresses a question from a 79-year-old worker who has been employed consistently since retirement and is currently collecting Social Security. Despite the worker’s physical toll due to labor-intensive positions, he is informed that Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits are no longer available once full retirement age (FRA) is reached, which in his case was 66. Those receiving SSDI at FRA are automatically converted to their regular SS retirement benefits at the same value. The SSDI benefits are designed to support workers until FRA and thus are not applicable thereafter. Regardless, even if SSDI were accessible, it would offer no financial advantage as the maximum amount one can get is the full retirement age amount.

The individual’s SS retirement benefit has been impacted by the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP), impacting those with a separate pension that is not contributing to Social Security. If more than 20 years contributing to SS from non-government work, one could request a reevaluation of the WEP penalty. If this reevaluation is needed, contacting Social Security via (800) 772-1213 is recommended or through your personal my Social Security online account at www.ssa.gov/myaccount. To gain a better understanding of how many years of work are covered by SS, it’s important to request an “Earnings Statement from Social Security.

If you have difficulties with the process and need further assistance, you can reach out to eddcustomer.com. They offer support on how to contact EDD and provide various services related to your Social Security and retirement needs.