Question 1

When will I get my Social Security check?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your birthday and benefit type. SSI is always paid on the 1st. SSDI and retirement: birthday 1-10 gets the 2nd Wednesday, 11-20 gets the 3rd Wednesday, 21-31 gets the 4th Wednesday.

Question 2

What is the SGA limit for 2026?

Accepted Answer

The 2026 SGA limit is $1,690 per month for non-blind SSDI recipients and $2,830 per month for blind individuals.

Question 3

How much can I have in savings on SSI?

Accepted Answer

SSI recipients can have no more than $2,000 in countable assets if single, or $3,000 if married. Your home and one car do not count toward this limit.

Question 4

What does Step 4 mean on the SSA portal?

Accepted Answer

Step 4 typically means your case is in medical determination — a decision maker is reviewing your complete file. Average wait at this stage is 30 to 90 days.

Question 5

How long does SSDI take to get approved?

Accepted Answer

Initial SSDI decisions take 3 to 6 months. If denied and appealed, add 3 to 5 months for reconsideration. An ALJ hearing adds 12 to 24 months. Total process often takes 1 to 3 years.

Question 6

Will I get my SSDI back pay in one lump sum?

Accepted Answer

SSDI back pay is typically paid in one lump sum within 60 days of approval, after any attorney fee deduction. SSI back pay over three times your monthly benefit is paid in installments.

Question 7

What triggers a Social Security disability review?

Accepted Answer

Seven main red flags trigger a CDR: earning above the SGA limit, gaps in medical treatment, reporting health improvement, doctor notes suggesting return to work, not responding to SSA letters, conflicting medical records, and third-party reports.

Question 8

Can I work part-time on SSDI?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You can earn up to $1,690 per month gross in 2026 without immediately losing SSDI. There is also a 9-month Trial Work Period where you can earn any amount and still receive full benefits.

Question 9

How do I appeal a Social Security denial?

Accepted Answer

You have 60 days from the date on your denial letter to request reconsideration. If denied again, request an ALJ hearing. Do not miss the 60-day window — it starts from the letter date, not when you received it.

Question 10

What is a CDR?

Accepted Answer

A Continuing Disability Review is when SSA checks whether you still qualify for disability benefits. Most people are reviewed every 3 years. Only about 3% of recipients actually lose benefits after a CDR.

Appeals & ALJ Hearings

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