Significant changes in the political climate can be unsettling. This can particularly be true if you depend on government benefits as a significant source of financial support. If you are disabled and you find yourself feeling that way at times, you should know that it’s normal. Under the current Trump Administration, there have been many changes to various government programs. As a result, many who receive disability benefits from the Social Security Administration are wondering if they might lose their benefits or have their payments changed in some way.

A Look at Potential Changes

As of 2025, the Trump Administration has proposed a number of changes to the Social Security Program. Two of the potential proposed changes include:

• Reversal of a 2024 rule that previously expanded entitlement to Supplemental Security Income by narrowing the definition of a “public assistance household.” Applicants for SSI must have income and resources below a specific annual limit. Various types of income are considered, including what is known as “in-kind” income. The Trump Administration has proposed eliminating the public assistance exception for determining in-kind income. Doing so could lead to reduced or no benefits for many SSI recipients.
• Adding a new category to be implemented during ongoing Social Security “Continuing Disability Reviews.” Currently, the SSA conducts a CDR at least once every three years to ensure that a beneficiary remains disabled and entitled to benefits. The Trump Administration has proposed adding a new medical improvement category entitled “Medical Improvement Likely,” to the process. An individual with a medical condition that is likely to improve may be subject to a CDR more frequently, which could increase the chances of discontinued benefits.

These changes, if implemented, could drastically reduce the number of disability benefit recipients, as well as the amount they ultimately receive. If you worry that this may apply to you, you should know that there are proactive steps you can take. While you can’t change the law, you can do what you can to assert your rights and protect yourself as much as possible.

What Can You Do?

If you are worried about protecting your disability benefits in light of the ongoing changes suggested or already implemented by the current administration, that’s understandable. The good news is that there are certain steps you can take to protect yourself. Some of those steps include:

• Keep yourself informed: Today more than ever, you can access news quickly – and it’s essential to use that to your advantage. Be sure to regularly check the Social Security Administration’s website at www.ssa.gov for any important changes to benefits made by the Trump Administration, as well as other helpful news outlets and government websites. Being informed and up to date on the most current information will allow you to take action quickly when you need to.
• Be diligent and responsive: If you receive disability benefits from the Social Security Administration, it’s essential to do what you can to abide by the parameters of the program. Continue to see your medical provider as needed, and keep updated and clear records regarding your condition and its effect on your life. Respond to the SSA when they contact you, and stay in touch with your attorney to ensure you are doing all you can to protect your benefits as well as possible.
• Seek legal help when necessary: Without question, the law can be complicated and confusing – especially when it’s changing often. Consulting with an attorney who knows and understands the law can be tremendously helpful. That attorney should be able to advise you of any changes to the laws that might affect your benefits, and guide you on how to protect yourself and assert your rights.

If all of this information regarding potential changes to benefits seems overwhelming or even scary, that’s understandable. Change can be difficult, especially if it has an adverse effect on the benefits you depend on. The good news is, you don’t have to worry and wonder about these changes alone. At Muse Disability, we’re here for you.

Muse Disability – Here For You

At Muse Disability, we know that being disabled presents many challenges and causes many worries. We understand those challenges and are here to help relieve your fears. Although we unfortunately can’t cure your disability, we can help you seek the benefits you need. We know that those benefits can be incredibly helpful in reducing the financial stress caused by being unable to work. Our talented and experienced team of disability attorneys knows the law, and we’ll help you through the process of pursuing benefits each step of the way. If you’re ready to get started, give us a call today. We look forward to helping you soon.

Sources:

1. Proposed Trump Changes to SSI and SSDI: https://www.cbpp.org/blog/trump-administration-plans-deep-cuts-to-social-security-disability-insurance-particularly-for
2. Reduction in SSI Benefits: https://www.cbpp.org/research/social-security/trump-administration-poised-to-cut-ssi-benefits-for-nearly-400000-low
3. Trump and Social Security: https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/social-security/what-trump-has-done-with-social-security