Ssdi Benefits Stopped Suddenly

Location: PA, USA. I’ve been on SSDI since 2004, came off briefly, then back on in 2012. I have autism, depression, anxiety, and fibromyalgia.

I started working again part time in 2019. I didn’t think I needed to report any wages that were under SGA. In 2024, the SSA contacted me wanting to know about my work. I sent all paystubs and authorized my employer to report my wages. I thought any months above SGA were the only months that counted towards a trial work period. I thought SGA was net pay, not gross. Even then, I rarely exceeded it, and not by much.

When I realized I was wrong, I made my own monthly accounting against SGA. I could see where they might decide I was overpaid a few times.

Last month, I got a letter saying that my SSDI might end due to my work. It asked for more information. I sent a letter from my doctor, a copy of my accounting, and a letter explaining my misunderstanding.

Yesterday, I got a letter saying that my benefits are suspended as of 2/1 while they review my case. If it weren’t for my family, I would not be able to make rent.

I immediately went online and submitted an appeal form.

I don’t understand why it took them 2 whole years to decide I was making too much money, and just days to stop my benefits. I have not been given the option to continue payments during an appeal. I checked with the SSA online, and verified that my payments have been cut off like a switch!

I don’t know what to do now. My doctor says I can’t work full time. The work I can do is not enough to live on. I thought I was following the rules and doing everything right. I even consulted a lawyer who said I would be fine as long as I stayed below $1400/month. Everyone I talk to has a different take on rules and amounts. I have called the SSA 3x this month, and none of the reps could find the most recent letters in their computer. I don’t know who to trust anymore.

Now I have no idea what wIll happen. If I have to pay back years of benefits and have none going forward, I’m done for.

What can I do?