Can I Work If I Receive SSDI/SSI?

The answer is yes. Social Security regulations were specifically drafted to encourage people to attempt to work. When a person is receiving Social Security Disability benefits, they may work making no more than $810.00 gross income per month, without losing their monthly disability benefits. In addition, those who receive Social Security Disability benefits are granted trial work periods. This trial work period allows the person receiving disability benefits to attempt to rejoin the work force. Each beneficiary of Social Security Disability is also awarded a nine month trial work period; at the end of this trial Social Security will then determine if this work should be regarded as substantial gainful employment (SGA). If the disabled person has earned more than $1,130.00 monthly as gross income during each month of their trial work phase, and this is determined to be substantial gainful employment, the disabled person’s benefits will cease, however, if their earnings drop below the gross monthly amount of $810.00 monthly, they would receive disability benefits for those months for 36 months after termination of their disability. This is called an extended period of eligibility. Working may also impact the Medicare benefits of Social Security Disability.

It is wise to consult with an attorney familiar in the laws of Social Security before venturing into a work attempt. At THOMPSON, BISSETT & CASTONIA, LLP, we have been representing the disabled both in obtaining Social Security Disability benefits and in retaining them for over 25 years. We realize that the Federal Social Security regulations can be confusing. We have the answers to assist you in addressing the issues of your Social Security Disability.

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