Problems After Getting Social Security Disability Benefits

Getting Social Security Disability Benefits is a big help for many people. But sometimes, you run into problems after you get your benefits. We'll go over some common problems and provide tips for how you can deal with them.

If you live in Oregon and need help with your benefits, you can call Oregon's Public Benefits Hotline at 1-800-520-5292 for brief assistance. Learn more about the public benefits hotline here.

Problem #1: Disability benefits aren't enough 

Often, the money you get from Social Security disability benefits is not enough to cover all your needs. It's tough when you can't afford food, bills, or other necessities.  

But there is extra help available. You may qualify for other government benefits, like food stamps, or you may be able to get food from a local food pantry. You can also get help paying your utility bills or rent. 

Here are some options for getting help: 

• Call 211. 211 provides referrals to community resources like food pantries or rent assistance. 211 is a free service run by a nonprofit (not the government). 
• Apply for other government benefit programs. Many government assistance programs can help you when you struggle to afford rent, utilities, food,  medical care, or other necessities. Learn more about government assistance programs on this page.
• Consider part-time work. If your health improves, you may consider getting a part-time job. However, working can affect your benefits. So, before you get a job, talk to a certified benefits counselor to understand if this is the right option. Learn more about benefits counseling on this government site. 

Problem #2: Dealing with all the paperwork and rules 

When you get disability benefits, you must follow Social Security's rules. You also need to keep up with the paperwork Social Security sends you.

For example, you may get paperwork asking you for information or telling you about changes in your benefits. When you get this paperwork, pay attention to deadlines. You may have as little as 10 days to take action, while you may have 60 days in other situations.

If you need help understanding the rules or what to do with paperwork from Social Security, you can call the Oregon Public Benefits Hotline at 1-800-520-5292 for brief, free assistance.

Problem #3: Disability benefits getting cut off or reduced

Sometimes, Social Security stops or lowers your benefits. This can happen if Social Security thinks you're not disabled anymore, thinks you make too much money, or if there's a mistake. Learn why benefits change and what you can do on this page.  

Problem #4: Debt collectors threatening to take your money 

If you owe money and debt collectors are calling you, don't worry! Some laws protect your disability benefits and retirement benefits from debt collectors. In most cases, debt collectors can't take these benefits. If a debt collector does take your benefits, you may be able to take them to court to get the money back. Read more about Social Security benefits and debt collection on this page.

Problem #5: Receiving an inheritance, gift, or other valuable property 

Getting a sum of money (like an inheritance) or a valuable gift (like an extra vehicle) can impact your benefits. Visit this page to learn what to do when you get extra money or property. 

Problem #6: Returning to work 

If your health improves, you may be thinking about returning to work. However, Social Security's work rules may make you worry about losing your benefits if you do.

But there's good news. If you're working or seriously thinking about working again, you can get free help from a certified benefits counselor. Learn more about benefits counselors on this government site.  

Attention: You must tell Social Security if you return to work. You also must report how much you earn. To tell Social Security about these changes, you can use their “Statement of Claimant Form.” If you get Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you should also expect your benefits to decrease. They’ll go down $.50 for every $1 you earn.

Summary 

Facing problems after getting your benefits can feel overwhelming. But remember, there are ways to solve these issues. You can handle these challenges by understanding your benefits, knowing your rights, and asking for help when needed. 

Remember, you're not alone in this. Many people have gone through the same troubles and found ways to make it work. With the right information and some effort, you can manage your Social Security disability benefits and keep moving forward. 

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