If a person is expecting to lose SSDI check (after TWP and grace period ) because of wages, can he or she choose to take early retirement benefits temporarily, but later switch back to disability benefits if earnings are reduced (below SGA) before person reaches Full Retirement Age?

Hi. If you're between age 62 and your full retirement age (FRA), then yes you could apply for reduced Social Security retirement benefits. But, whether or not you'd be able to 'switch back' to Social Security disability (SSDI) benefits depends on whether or not you're still in your extended period of eligibility (EPE) for SSDI. A person's EPE generally extends for at least 3 years after the end of their trial work period (TWP). If a person's benefits are suspended during their EPE, their SSDI benefits can be reinstated if their earnings drop below substantial gainful activity (SGA) level. However, if their EPE has ended, then they could only become reentitled to SSDI benefits by reapplying for SSDI and being approved by Social Security.

Another thing to consider is that when you apply for reduced Social Security benefits prior to full retirement age (FRA), a separate earnings test applies. The earnings limits for retirement benefits are higher than the SGA limits, but some or all of your early retirement benefits could still be withheld depending upon your benefit rate and how much you earn (https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/retirement/planner/whileworking.html).

The best strategy for someone in this circumstance depends on the specific details involved, so they should try discussing their options with a Social Security technical expert.

Best, Jerry