Serious Disease Allowance (SDA) is a program offered by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to individuals who have been diagnosed with a serious medical condition that prevents them from working and earning a living.
The SDA program provides financial assistance to help these individuals pay for their basic living expenses, such as food, shelter, and medical care. However, there are certain circumstances where an individual may no longer be eligible to receive SDA benefits even though they qualify.
In this article, we will discuss some of these circumstances and when an individual may no longer receive SDA benefits.
When You Can No Longer Work
An individual is eligible for SDA benefits if they have a serious medical condition that prevents them from working and earning a living.
However, if the individual is able to return to work or start earning an income through another means, then they may no longer be eligible for SDA benefits. This may occur if the individual’s medical condition improves or if they are able to find a job that accommodates their disability.
When Your Income Exceeds the Maximum Allowable Amount
The amount of SDA benefits an individual can receive is based on their income. If an individual’s income exceeds the maximum allowable amount, then they may no longer be eligible for SDA benefits.
The maximum allowable amount is determined by the SSA each year and is based on the individual’s type of income and household size.
When You Fail to Meet the Eligibility Requirements
There are certain eligibility requirements that an individual must meet in order to qualify for SDA benefits. If an individual no longer meets these requirements, then they may no longer be eligible for SDA benefits.
Examples of eligibility requirements include being a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, being unable to work due to a serious medical condition, and having limited income and resources.
When You Fail to Provide Required Documentation
In order to receive SDA benefits, an individual must provide certain documentation to the SSA. This documentation may include medical records, income tax returns, and other relevant information.
Failure to provide this documentation may result in a loss of SDA benefits.
Related Article
When does your eligibility for Serious Disease Allowance end?
When Your Medical Condition Improves
SDA benefits are intended to assist individuals who have a serious medical condition that prevents them from working and earning a living.
If an individual’s medical condition improves to the point where they are able to work or otherwise earn an income, then they may no longer be eligible for SDA benefits.
When You No Longer Meet the Definition of a “Disabled Person”
The SSA uses a specific definition of “disabled person” when determining eligibility for SDA benefits. If an individual no longer fits this definition, then they may no longer be eligible for SDA benefits.
For example, if an individual’s medical condition improves to the point where they are able to work or otherwise earn an income, they may no longer be considered a “disabled person” under the SSA’s definition.
When You Fail to Report Changes in Your Circumstances
It is important for individuals receiving SDA benefits to report any changes in their circumstances to the SSA. Failure to report changes, such as an improvement in medical condition or changes in income, may result in a loss of SDA benefits.
It is important to keep the SSA updated on any changes to avoid a loss of benefits.
When You Die or No Longer Need Assistance
If an individual dies or no longer needs assistance, then their SDA benefits will be terminated. It is important for family members or loved ones to notify the SSA as soon as possible to avoid any overpayments of benefits.
When You Are Incarcerated
If an individual is incarcerated, they are not eligible for SDA benefits. If an individual is incarcerated for more than 30 consecutive days, their benefits will be terminated.
However, if the individual is incarcerated for less than 30 consecutive days, their benefits may be suspended but will resume once they are released from incarceration.
When Your Immigration Status Changes
An individual must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident to be eligible for SDA benefits. If an individual’s immigration status changes, such as if they lose their permanent residency, their SDA benefits may be terminated.
