Many people with disabilities rely on government benefits to make ends meet. However, some may want to work part-time to supplement their income or gain work experience. This can lead to concerns about losing their disability benefits.

The answer to whether someone will lose their disability benefits if they work part-time is not a simple yes or no. It depends on several factors, including the type of disability benefits they receive and how much they earn from their part-time job. In some cases, working part-time may not affect their benefits at all. In other cases, it may result in a reduction or even a complete loss of benefits.

Navigating the rules and regulations surrounding disability benefits and part-time work can be confusing and overwhelming. It’s important for individuals with disabilities to understand their rights and options before making any decisions about working part-time. In this article, we will explore the factors that can impact disability benefits when working part-time and provide guidance on how to make informed decisions.

Understanding Disability Benefits and Employment

Types of Disability Benefits

There are two main types of disability benefits available in the United States: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSDI is available to individuals who have worked and paid Social Security taxes for a certain period of time, while SSI is available to those who have limited income and resources.

Both types of disability benefits have specific eligibility criteria, including medical requirements and income limits. It is important to understand the specific requirements for each type of benefit before applying.

Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) and Income Limits

One important factor to consider when working while receiving disability benefits is the concept of Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA). SGA refers to the level of income an individual can earn while still being considered disabled and eligible for benefits.

For SSDI recipients, the SGA limit for 2024 is $1,380 per month. For SSI recipients, the SGA limit is lower, at $794 per month. If an individual earns above these limits, they may be considered able to engage in substantial gainful activity and may no longer be eligible for disability benefits.

It is important to note that not all income is counted towards the SGA limit. Some types of income, such as income from certain types of work expenses or from a spouse’s income, may not be counted.

In conclusion, understanding the types of disability benefits available and the income limits associated with them is crucial for individuals who are considering working while receiving benefits. It is important to consult with a qualified professional to ensure that all eligibility criteria are met and that any income earned does not jeopardize the receipt of disability benefits.

The Trial Work Period Explained

Trial Work Period (TWP) Basics

The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides disability benefits to individuals who are unable to work due to a medical condition. However, the SSA understands that some individuals may want to try and return to work despite their disability. To support this goal, the SSA has implemented the Trial Work Period (TWP).

The TWP allows individuals who receive disability benefits to test their ability to work for a period of nine months. During this period, individuals are allowed to work and earn any amount of money without affecting their disability benefits. The nine months do not have to be consecutive, and the TWP can be spread out over a period of 60 months.

Impact of Part-Time Work on TWP

Individuals who work part-time during their TWP will have their earnings counted towards their trial period. The SSA considers any earnings over $910 per month as substantial gainful activity (SGA), which can affect an individual’s disability benefits.

For example, if an individual earns $1,000 per month during their TWP, the SSA will consider $90 of their earnings as SGA. If an individual exceeds the SGA limit for any three months during their TWP, their disability benefits will stop.

It is important to note that the TWP is a one-time benefit. Once an individual has completed their TWP, any earnings over the SGA limit will affect their disability benefits. However, if an individual’s earnings fall below the SGA limit, they may still be eligible for disability benefits.

In conclusion, the TWP is a valuable program that allows individuals with disabilities to test their ability to work without losing their disability benefits. However, it is important to understand the impact of part-time work on the TWP and how it can affect an individual’s disability benefits.

Work Incentives for Disability Beneficiaries

Individuals with disabilities may be hesitant to work part-time for fear of losing their disability benefits. However, there are several work incentives available that can help them maintain their benefits while earning an income. In this section, we will discuss some of the most common work incentives available to disability beneficiaries.

Ticket to Work Program

The Ticket to Work program is a free and voluntary program that provides disability beneficiaries with the resources and support they need to find and maintain employment. Through this program, beneficiaries can receive vocational rehabilitation, training, job referrals, and other employment services. The program also provides a safety net that allows beneficiaries to return to disability benefits if their work attempts are unsuccessful.

Impairment-Related Work Expenses (IRWE)

Impairment-Related Work Expenses (IRWE) are expenses related to a disability that a beneficiary incurs while working. These expenses can be subtracted from the beneficiary’s earnings, which may reduce the amount of income used to determine eligibility for disability benefits. Examples of IRWEs include the cost of assistive technology, transportation to and from work, and personal care assistance.

Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE)

The Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE) is a work incentive that allows disability beneficiaries to continue receiving benefits for a period of time after they begin working. During the EPE, beneficiaries can earn any amount of money without affecting their disability benefits. The length of the EPE varies based on the beneficiary’s earnings and can last up to 36 months.

Overall, disability beneficiaries should be aware of the work incentives available to them and take advantage of them when possible. By doing so, they can maintain their benefits while earning an income and working towards their career goals.

Continuing Disability Reviews and Work Activity

Individuals who receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits may wonder if working part-time will result in the loss of their disability benefits. Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs) are conducted by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to determine if an individual continues to meet the definition of disability and is still eligible for benefits.

The Role of Continuing Disability Reviews (CDR)

CDRs are conducted periodically to ensure that individuals who receive SSDI benefits continue to meet the eligibility criteria. The frequency of CDRs depends on the severity of the individual’s disability and the likelihood of improvement. Individuals with conditions that are expected to improve may be subject to more frequent CDRs than those with conditions that are not expected to improve.

During a CDR, the SSA reviews the individual’s medical records and any other relevant information to determine if they still meet the definition of disability. If the SSA determines that the individual is no longer disabled, their benefits may be terminated.

Reporting Work Activity

Individuals who receive SSDI benefits can work part-time and still receive benefits, as long as their earnings do not exceed the substantial gainful activity (SGA) limit. The SGA limit is adjusted annually and is currently $1,310 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,190 per month for blind individuals.

It is important for individuals to report any work activity to the SSA, as it may affect their eligibility for benefits. Failure to report work activity could result in overpayments, which the individual would be required to repay.

In conclusion, individuals who receive SSDI benefits can work part-time and still receive benefits, as long as their earnings do not exceed the SGA limit. However, it is important to report any work activity to the SSA and to undergo periodic CDRs to ensure continued eligibility for benefits.

Legal Considerations and Support

Individuals with disabilities who work part-time may be concerned about losing their disability benefits. It is important to understand the legal considerations and support available to ensure that individuals with disabilities can continue to receive the benefits they need.

When to Consult a Disability Lawyer

If an individual with a disability is considering working part-time, it may be beneficial to consult with a disability lawyer. A disability lawyer can provide guidance on how working part-time may impact disability benefits and can assist with the appeals process if benefits are denied.

A disability lawyer can also help individuals with disabilities understand their rights and responsibilities under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other applicable laws. This can include providing guidance on requesting reasonable accommodations in the workplace and ensuring that employers are complying with all applicable laws.

The Appeals Process

If an individual with a disability is denied disability benefits after working part-time, they may be able to appeal the decision. The appeals process can be complex and time-consuming, but it is important to understand the steps involved.

The first step in the appeals process is to request a hearing before an administrative law judge. At the hearing, the individual with a disability will have the opportunity to present evidence and argue their case. If the administrative law judge denies the appeal, the individual with a disability can continue to appeal the decision through the Social Security Administration’s appeals process.

It is important to note that the appeals process can take several months or even years to complete. During this time, individuals with disabilities may not receive disability benefits. It is important to have a plan in place to ensure that basic needs are met during this time.

Overall, working part-time does not necessarily mean that an individual with a disability will lose their disability benefits. However, it is important to understand the legal considerations and support available to ensure that individuals with disabilities can continue to receive the benefits they need.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many hours am I allowed to work while receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)?

There is no limit to the number of hours a person can work while receiving SSDI benefits. However, the Social Security Administration (SSA) does have rules regarding how much a person can earn each month without affecting their benefits.

What are the income limits for SSDI recipients who want to work part-time?

In 2024, the income limit for SSDI recipients who want to work part-time is $1,310 per month. If a person earns more than this amount, their benefits may be reduced or stopped altogether.

Can working part-time affect my SSDI benefits and how is this determined?

Working part-time can affect a person’s SSDI benefits if they earn more than the income limit set by the SSA. The SSA uses a formula to determine how much a person’s benefits will be reduced based on their earnings.

What is the process to report part-time work while receiving SSDI?

SSDI recipients are required to report any changes in their income or work status to the SSA. To report part-time work, a person can contact their local SSA office or report their earnings online using the my Social Security account.

Are there any specific state regulations, such as in Florida, that impact SSDI when working part-time?

Each state has its own regulations regarding SSDI and part-time work. In Florida, for example, the income limit for SSDI recipients who want to work part-time is the same as the federal limit of $1,310 per month.

Is there a trial work period for SSDI recipients who wish to work part-time?

Yes, SSDI recipients are allowed a trial work period during which they can work and earn any amount without affecting their benefits. The trial work period lasts for nine months within a five-year period.