Social Security Disability Work Guidelines

Can You Work If You Get Social Security Disability?

Yes, it is possible to work while receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, but there are specific rules and guidelines you must follow to maintain your eligibility without jeopardizing your benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) has established several programs and provisions that allow individuals to test their ability to work while remaining eligible for benefits. Here, we will explore these details, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of how work can affect Social Security Disability benefits.

Understanding Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

Before delving into work-related details, it is crucial to understand what SSDI entails. SSDI provides benefits to individuals who cannot work due to a severe, long-term medical condition that meets the SSA's definition of disability. Unlike Social Security Income (SSI), which is needs-based, SSDI is based on your previous work credits and earnings.

The Trial Work Period (TWP)

What is the Trial Work Period?

The Trial Work Period is a program designed to encourage SSDI beneficiaries to attempt re-entering the workforce without immediately losing their benefits. During the TWP, you can work and still receive your full SSDI benefits, regardless of the amount you earn. The SSA considers nine months of work within a 60-month (five-year) rolling window as the Trial Work Period.

Key Points of the TWP:

• During the TWP, any month in which your earnings exceed $1,050 (as of 2023) counts as a month toward your TWP.
• You can use non-consecutive months to complete the nine-month duration.
• It enables you to test your ability to work and evaluate if you can return to work on a long-term basis.

Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE)

After the successful completion of the TWP, you enter the Extended Period of Eligibility. This 36-month period follows the TWP and allows you to work while still having access to your SSDI benefits.

Key Aspects of the EPE:

• If your earnings surpass the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit, which is $1,470 (as of 2023) for individuals who are not blind and $2,460 for blind individuals, your benefits may be suspended for that month.
• Should your earnings fall below the SGA limit within this period, your benefits may resume without needing a new application.

Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)

SGA is a critical term in understanding SSDI work-related rules. It refers to the level of work activity and earnings considered significant enough to affect your eligibility for SSDI benefits. In 2023, the SGA limit is $1,470 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,460 for those who are blind.

What to Know About SGA:

• If your earnings exceed the SGA limit after the EPE, you risk losing SSDI eligibility.
• Work-related expenses related to your impairment can be deducted from your total earnings to potentially remain below the SGA threshold.

Expedited Reinstatement

What is Expedited Reinstatement?

If your benefits cease due to work-related earnings but you find yourself unable to sustain work activity due to your medical condition, you may be eligible for Expedited Reinstatement (EXR). This allows for a quick retrieval of benefits without going through the entire application process again.

Features of EXR:

• You must apply for EXR within five years of your benefits stopping.
• You receive provisional benefits for up to six months while the SSA reviews your case.
• If approved, you regain SSDI benefits.

Impact on Medical Continuing Disability Review

While working, you may worry about trigger points for a medical review. It is important to note that your decision to work does not automatically trigger a Continuing Disability Review (CDR); being actively involved in a job and maintaining earnings within specified limits can help show that you are progressing without needing a prompted CDR.

Work Incentives and Resources

Ticket to Work Program

The SSA offers the Ticket to Work program, providing employment support services to disabled individuals who desire to work. This program connects you with vocational rehabilitation, job training, and similar resources, helping to ease your transition back into the workforce.

Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS)

A PASS allows you to set aside income and/or resources for a specified period to achieve a particular work goal. For example, you may need to purchase work equipment or attend training to secure a job. PASS resources do not count against your eligibility determinations for SSDI or SSI.

FAQs

1. Can I work part-time while receiving SSDI benefits?

Yes, you can work part-time while receiving SSDI benefits. However, your earnings must not exceed the SGA limit unless you are utilizing the Trial Work Period.

2. I exceeded the SGA for one month; will I lose my benefits immediately?

Exceeding the SGA for one month during the EPE results in the suspension of benefits, but not a complete cessation. Your benefits can resume if your earnings fall below the SGA threshold in any subsequent month.

3. Are there differences between SSDI and SSI in terms of working?

Yes, SSI is a needs-based program with different income and resource limits. Both programs involve complex rules about earnings, but SSI often has stricter limitations given its income-based nature.

Conclusion

Working while receiving SSDI benefits is feasible through structured programs such as the Trial Work Period, Extended Period of Eligibility, and Expedited Reinstatement. Understanding the rules associated with Substantial Gainful Activity is crucial in maintaining eligibility. Utilizing resources like the Ticket to Work and PASS plans can support your endeavors to achieve gainful employment without losing your safety net. It's always advisable to consult with a benefits counselor or advisor when considering work activities to ensure you are making informed decisions that align with SSA regulations.

For more detailed insights and guidance tailored to your specific situation, consider reaching out to the Social Security Administration directly or exploring additional resources on our website. Taking informed steps will ensure you balance the benefits with the autonomy of work for a sustainable future.