CAN I COLLECT SOC. SEC. RETIREMENT BENEFITS and SSDI AT THE SAME TIME? I’M AGE 60-65 CLOSELY APPROACHING RETIREMENT AGE

Many older workers who can still do light duty work are still entitled to Social Security Disability Benefits. If you are over 62 and disabled it is wise to take your early retirement benefits and file for Social Security Disability. The two will offset eventually and you will get on disability until your full retirement age 65-66. You will also become eligible for Medicare during those 62-65 years of age. Because the vocational Grids allow for greater latitude for ALJs granting older individuals benefits where younger ones would not get them even with the same physical restrictions, we encourage anyone who is 59 or over and who has a limited ability to do light work and even sedentary work to apply. Go see your doctor. Make sure you continue to treat for your condition and if you cannot do your old work any more and don’t think that you are qualified for anything anymore, Social Security Disability might be what you need to think about besides retiring early at 62.