I turn 66 in May of 2020. I am currently working and have been working several years while maintaining the guidelines of SSDI. I am changing jobs and will be making more money where it will be risky in regard to going over income. I was wondering if I could convert to SSI Retirement a few months early while not missing a check.

Hi,

Yes, if you're receiving Social Security disability (SSDI) benefits and you're at least age 62 you could apply for reduced Social Security retirement benefits and elect to receive those benefits instead of SSDI benefits. However, you would then receive a somewhat lower benefit rate depending on how many months prior to full retirement age (FRA) you start drawing your retirement benefits. That reduction may or may not continue once you reach FRA depending on your status with regard to SSDI. If your SSDI entitlement is terminated due to your earnings then the benefit reduction would likely be permanent, but if your SSDI benefits are just suspended and not terminated then the reduction would be removed effective with the month you reach FRA.

I don't have enough information about your case to know whether or not your SSDI would be suspended or terminated due to your earnings, so you should discuss your options with a knowledgeable Social Security representative.

Best, Jerry