Social Security Disability: 5 Critical Steps to Keep Your Benefits in 2025
If you’re receiving Social Security Disability Insurance, you understand how long and stressful the application process can be. But even after approval, your benefits aren’t guaranteed forever. Without staying proactive, your monthly payments could be delayed—or even stopped entirely.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) denies roughly 70% of SSDI applicants in the early stages of review. That’s why it’s vital to understand what could put your benefits at risk and how to avoid disruptions. Here are five critical steps every SSDI recipient should take in 2025.
1. Keep Your Personal Information Up to Date
The SSA manages benefits for millions of Americans. That means even small changes in your personal life—like a move or name change—can impact your payments.
Make sure the SSA has your current:
- Mailing address
- Phone number
- Legal name (especially if you’ve married or divorced)
Failure to update your contact info can result in delayed or missed payments, since the agency won’t be able to reach you if issues arise.
2. Report Any Increase in Household Income
Whether it’s your own earnings, investment income, or your spouse’s paycheck, failing to report a change in income can lead to a loss of benefits.
The SSA uses income data from the IRS, so discrepancies will likely be flagged. Even part-time work or gig income could push you above allowable limits. In 2025, the monthly Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) threshold is:
- $1,620 for non-blind individuals
- $2,700 for statutorily blind individuals
Report changes immediately to avoid overpayments and potential penalties.
3. Notify SSA of Any Bank Account Changes
If you’ve recently switched banks or opened a new checking account, update your direct deposit information with the SSA right away. If a payment bounces back because your old account was closed, the SSA may halt all future payments until it’s sorted out.
Avoid payment delays by confirming your account details through your my Social Security online account or by calling the SSA directly.
4. Don’t Exceed the Work Limit
Even a small increase in work activity can affect your SSDI status. The SSA monitors whether you are engaging in “substantial gainful activity.” If your earnings consistently exceed the monthly limit, the SSA may determine you’re no longer eligible for disability benefits.
Always keep detailed records of your hours and income if you’re working. And if your work situation changes, report it promptly.
5. Inform the SSA if Your Representative Payee Changes
If someone helps manage your SSDI money—such as a family member, caregiver, or agency—they are considered your representative payee. The SSA must be informed immediately if this arrangement changes.
Failing to do so could trigger a temporary halt in your benefits while they verify your new representative.
When to Expect Your Social Security Disability Payment in April 2025
SSDI checks for April will be deposited on one of four dates, depending on when you started receiving benefits and your birthday:
- April 3 – For those who began receiving benefits before May 1997
- April 9 – If your birthday falls between the 1st and 10th
- April 16 – If your birthday falls between the 11th and 20th
- April 23 – If your birthday falls between the 21st and 31st
VA Disability payments, meanwhile, will be made on May 1, 2025, since they’re typically sent on the first business day of the month following the benefit month.
Bonus: Why Filing Taxes Might Benefit Social Security Disability Recipients
Many SSDI recipients aren’t required to file federal taxes—but doing so could still be worth it. You might qualify for valuable tax credits, including:
- Earned Income Tax Credit
- Child Tax Credit
- Child and Dependent Care Credit
If you had any additional income in 2024, such as from part-time work, your Social Security benefits could be partially taxable. If you’re unsure, check your combined income or use IRS Form 703 to help determine your status.
Final Thoughts
Protecting your SSDI benefits requires ongoing attention. From reporting life changes to staying within income limits, being proactive now can help you avoid losing the financial support you rely on. Log into your my Social Security account or call the SSA to make sure your records are accurate and up to date.