Can I Work and Receive Social Security Disability Benefits?

Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) can be complex, especially when it comes to understanding how employment may impact your benefits. Many people wonder if they can work while receiving SSDI benefits, and the answer is nuanced. Yes, you are allowed to work some hours if you are pursuing or receiving Social Security Disability benefits. However, there are important considerations and limitations to keep in mind. At Black & Jones Attorneys at Law, we’re here to help you understand how to balance work and SSDI, ensuring you make the best decisions for your unique situation.

Understanding SGA

To qualify for SSDI, you must demonstrate that you have a medical condition preventing you from engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA). SGA is a specific dollar amount set by the Social Security Administration (SSA) that changes annually. For 2024, this amount is $1,470 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,460 per month for blind individuals. If your earnings exceed these amounts, the SSA will determine that you are not disabled, even if you have a serious medical condition.

It's crucial to monitor your earnings carefully. Even a slight increase in income beyond the SGA threshold can jeopardize your eligibility for benefits. If you're considering working while on SSDI, it's advisable to consult with an attorney who can help you navigate these regulations and ensure you stay within the allowable limits.

The Trial Work Period

The SSA offers a trial work period (TWP) to SSDI recipients, allowing them to test their ability to work while still receiving full benefits. During this period, you can earn any amount without affecting your SSDI benefits, as long as you report your work activity to the SSA. The TWP lasts for nine months, which do not have to be consecutive, within a rolling 60-month period.

However, it’s important to note that the SSA considers a month a trial work month if your earnings exceed $1,050 in 2024. Once you complete the TWP, you enter an extended period of eligibility (EPE), where the SSA will monitor your earnings. During the EPE, if you earn above the SGA level, you may not receive benefits for those months.

Understanding the Risks

While it is possible to work and receive SSDI benefits, it's essential to understand the potential impact on your benefits. For SSDI, if you consistently earn more than the SGA limit, your benefits may stop after the TWP and EPE. However, if you stop working or your earnings drop below the SGA level within five years of your benefits ending, you can request expedited reinstatement without having to reapply.

For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), the situation is slightly different. SSI is needs-based, meaning your income and resources are considered when determining eligibility and payment amounts. Any income you earn, including from work, can reduce your SSI benefits. Therefore, working even part-time can impact the amount you receive.

Balancing work and Social Security Disability benefits requires careful consideration of the SSA’s rules and your financial needs. While it is possible to work and receive SSDI or SSI, exceeding certain income limits can affect your benefits. At Black & Jones Attorneys at Law, we recommend consulting with an attorney who can guide you through these complexities and help you make informed decisions. Our team is here to support you in understanding your rights and navigating the process. If you have questions or need assistance, don't hesitate to call us at 815-967-9000 or fill out our contact form for a free consultation. We're dedicated to helping you secure the benefits you deserve while making the best choices for your future.