If you rely on disability benefits, the reality is that your costs will increase in 2026, while your income may not keep pace. Many members are already noticing higher healthcare expenses, and Medicare premiums are expected to rise significantly, reducing the impact of the small COLA increases from Social Security.
The good news is that there are clear steps you can take right now to protect your income, optimize your benefits, and create new ways to earn extra income. This newsletter will show you how.
The Problem
Healthcare costs are rising faster than COLA increases. In 2026:
➤ COLA (Cost-of-Living Adjustment): projected +2.7%
➤ Medicare Part B Premiums: projected +11.6%
But when you’re tired, broke, or in pain — how do you chase all that down?
The Solution: Act Now, Stay Ahead
You do not have to wait for a notice to arrive in your mailbox. Here is what to do:
1. Join Our Live Events and Replays
Get practical and timely advice from experts who have helped thousands of members protect and grow their benefits:
● Major 2026 Benefit Changes Ahead: What to Know and Do Before It Is Too Late (10/1/2025)
● How to Review Your Benefits (10/8/2025)
2. Explore Income-Boosting Opportunities
Offset rising costs by safely supplementing your income:
● How and Why to Earn Extra Income – Andrea’s Real Story (9/24/2025)
● Refer-a-Friend Program to earn rewards while helping others.
3. Secure Your Benefits Review
Every member receives one free annual benefit review. With nearly 200,000 members, one-on-one review slots are limited.
Join our live events to learn how to review your own benefits.
If you prefer a personal review, we have 22 customized spots available this month. Reserve yours before they are filled.
[Get on the List for a Personalized Benefit Review]
Understanding Regulations: Work, Activity & Social Media
As 2026 approaches, it’s essential to understand how the Social Security Administration (SSA) evaluates work, income, and even online activity.
Work & Income:
● For 2026, you can earn $1,210/month and keep your disability benefits.
● The amount is gross for W-2 employees or net after expenses for self-employed (1099).
● Watch the video explaining SSA’s rule here: How Much Can I Make.
If you’re applying for benefits in 2026, you can earn up to $1,690/month and still qualify.
● SSA Regulation Overview.
● Recent live event on how to protect your benefits for 2026
Trial Work Period:
Think of it as your safety net — a way to test working part-time without immediately losing your benefits.
Always report changes in work or earnings to SSA.
Online Activity:
Be mindful about what you share.
● Photos or posts showing physical activity can raise questions.
● Context matters — a single post can create a misunderstanding.
Remember: “It’s not about hiding; it’s about accuracy and consistency.”
The Extra Help Program (Part D Low-Income Subsidy)
This program helps pay for prescriptions and Part D premiums.
Learn more and apply here: Medicare Extra Help Program.
2026 projected income limits:
● Individuals: ≤ $1,976/month
● Married couples: ≤ $2,664/month
Warning: COLA increases can push your income just above the limit, costing you coverage.
Medicare Savings Programs — Don’t Pay If You Don’t Have To
These programs, run through your state Medicaid office, can help pay your Medicare premiums and other costs. Depending on which level you qualify for (QMB, SLMB, QI, or QDWI), it can even cover deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance.
If your income is around $5,302 (single) or $7,135 (married) per month or less, you may qualify. Limits vary slightly by state.
Learn more: Medicare Savings Programs.
Continuing Disability Review (CDR) Surprises
SSA reviews your case every 3–7 years, sometimes sooner.
Triggers:
● Gaps in medical treatment
● Notes suggesting improvement
● Work or income above limits
How to prepare:
● Stay consistent with medical care.
● Keep records organized.
● Notify SSA of address or work updates promptly.
When you get a CDR packet, respond quickly — missing the deadline can suspend payments.
Doctoring & Communicating Your Limitations
Your doctor’s notes play a big role in maintaining your benefits.
● Keep up regular appointments — long gaps raise red flags.
● Be specific about your limitations: “I can only stand 10 minutes,” or “I nap twice a day.”
● Ask your doctor to record your functional limitations, not just “doing well.”
● Bring a short symptom journal to each visit.
● If cost is an issue, try community clinics or telehealth. Something is always better than nothing.
User Testing: Your Chance to Shape the Future
We’re also preparing to launch user testing for The Disability Digest website to ensure it truly meets your needs. This is your opportunity to influence how the site works for you.
● Who’s running it: We’re partnering with Ainoa (pronounced “I-no-ah”).
● Why it matters: Your feedback will directly improve the website’s structure, usability, and helpfulness.
● Who can join: Anyone is welcome.
● What’s involved: About 30 minutes of your time in a simple browser-based video call.
● Flexibility: Pick a time slot that works for you, with the ability to reschedule if needed.
● Privacy: Tests will be recorded only for internal purposes. Your data will never be shared externally.
To participate, fill out a short pre-screening questionnaire. Selected participants will be contacted directly by Ainoa to schedule. The testing period will take place from November 17 to 23, 2025.
Member Survey: Personal Health Tracking Devices
We want to hear from you!
Do you use a smartwatch, fitness tracker, or health app to track your wellness?
Share your experience and help us learn how these tools support your health journey.
Take the quick survey:
Member Health Tracking Survey.
Final Thought
November is about staying informed and proactive. The more you understand your benefits and regulations, the easier it is to protect your income and peace of mind in 2026.
Stay connected with The Disability Digest community, join our live events, and use these resources to secure your financial and health stability for the year ahead.
Your future self will thank you.
Resources
● SSA – Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLA)
● SSA – 2025 COLA Fact Sheet (PDF)
● Medicare.gov – 2025 Part A & B Costs
● AARP – 2026 Medicare Part B Premium Projections
● Kiplinger – 2026 COLA Projection
● my Social Security – Create/Sign In
Stay strong. You’ve got this.
We’re here to help.
— The Disability Digest Team
www.thedisabilitydigest.com