Can You Work and Still Get SSDI? Let’s Break It Down

You've invested years of hard work, and now you're in a tight spot where you're considering SSDI benefits. The burning question is, can you work while receiving or applying for SSDI? The answer is yes, you can. But before we start throwing confetti, let's dig deeper to understand exactly how you can balance work and SSDI benefits.

Financial Thresholds: How Much Can You Earn?

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has a term called Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA), and it's crucial for your situation. For 2023, the SGA limit is $1,470 for non-blind individuals and $2,460 for blind folks. If your monthly earnings exceed these amounts, your SSDI benefits could be at risk. What this means is that if you're a non-blind individual and you earn, say, $1,470 in a month, the SSA may consider you capable of SGA and you could lose your benefits.

🔥 Hot Tip: Keep an eye out for yearly SGA updates. Your eligibility could hinge on these changing numbers.

What To Do Right Now

  • Check the SSA's official SGA page for updates
  • Maintain accurate records of your monthly earnings
  • Consult a Social Security benefits advisor if you're close to the SGA limit

Being proactive about this can save you a world of trouble down the line. So, think of this as a crucial monthly chore, like paying your bills or doing your laundry.

Working While Applying for SSDI

If you're still in the application stage, exceeding the SGA limit could lead to an automatic denial of your SSDI claim. The SSA wants proof that you can't engage in SGA-level work for a year or more. This is why it's crucial to not only know the SGA limits but to also understand how to properly document your work limitations in your application.

Blue collar worker sitting at table determined to continue working while applying for ssdi benefits.

Action Steps

  • Carefully document how your disability affects your work in your SSDI application
  • Limit work hours to stay below the SGA limit
  • Keep all employment records, like payslips and contracts

📕 Story Time: My friend Jane learned this the hard way. She failed to track her earnings and went slightly over the SGA limit, causing her application to be rejected. Don't let this happen to you. Learn from Jane's mistake; document meticulously and consult experts when in doubt.

Trial Work Period: Your Test Drive

Here's a bit of relief. Once you start receiving SSDI, the SSA offers a Trial Work Period (TWP). For up to nine months within a 60-month window, you can earn as much as you want without affecting your SSDI benefits. This is the SSA's way of encouraging you to test the waters and see if you're capable of returning to work full-time.

⭐️ You May Also Be Interested In: If you're navigating SSDI, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) might also be an option. SSI has work incentives similar to SSDI's TWP.

What To Do Right Now

  • Familiarize yourself with TWP rules and regulations
  • Promptly report all earnings during this period to the SSA
  • Keep track of your TWP months to avoid unintended consequences

It's like a grace period that allows you to evaluate your work capabilities without losing your SSDI benefits. However, remember, this period has an expiration date, so make the most of it.

Extended Period of Eligibility

After the TWP, you'll enter an Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE). For the next 36 months, you'll continue to receive SSDI benefits for any month where your earnings are below the SGA limit. This is not a free pass to stop paying attention to your earnings. The SSA still expects you to report your income and any changes in your work situation.

🔔 FYI: This article offers general guidance; your individual circumstances may differ. For the most accurate information, consult the SSA's official website.

Action Steps

  • Keep an eye on SGA updates, especially during your EPE
  • If earnings fluctuate, consult an SSA representative to avoid jeopardizing your benefits

Reporting to the SSA: No Surprises, Please

When you're juggling work and SSDI, transparent communication with the SSA is critical. Any changes in your work status or income need to be reported promptly to avoid overpayments or legal issues. This includes not just wage increases but also bonuses, freelance work, or any other form of additional income.

What To Do Right Now

  • Keep a detailed folder of employment records
  • Report your earnings monthly to the SSA
  • Notify the SSA of any changes in your work situation immediately

Think of this as a continuous dialogue with the SSA. Consistent reporting not only keeps you in the clear but also ensures that you receive the benefits you're entitled to, based on your current situation.

Oops! Denied? Know Your Appeals Process

Hitting a roadblock with your SSDI benefits, whether it's a denial or an unexpected halt, can be a tough cookie. But here's the silver lining: you've got options to challenge that call. The SSA has a structured appeals process, so if you're scratching your head thinking their decision is off, you've got a ladder of steps to climb.

Levels of Appeal:

  1. Reconsideration: Think of this as a second opinion. Someone fresh, who wasn't involved in the original verdict, will give your claim another look.
  2. Hearing: Still not satisfied? You can request a face-to-face (or virtual) chat with an administrative law judge. It's your chance to lay out your case.
  3. Appeals Council: If the hearing doesn't swing your way, you can ask the SSA's big-wig council to review your case.
  4. Federal Court: If all else fails, and you're feeling like a legal eagle, you can take your case to a federal court.

🛡️ Guardian Angel Tip: Navigating an SSDI appeal can be tricky. So, if you're feeling a tad overwhelmed, consider chatting with a disability attorney or advocate. They've danced this dance before and can guide you through the twists and turns.

In Summary

Your SSDI benefits aren't a one-size-fits-all solution; managing them requires ongoing attention. Being proactive in understanding the rules and keeping the SSA updated will help you get the most out of the benefits you've worked hard to qualify for.

👉 Next Steps: Set a monthly reminder to review your earnings and report to the SSA. This simple action could save you a lot of trouble down the line.

You May Also Be Interested In:

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Disclaimer: The information provided in this article (or anywhere on this website) is compiled and curated to the best of our knowledge for general informational purposes. We make no warranties or representations, implied or explicit, as to the accuracy, completeness, or relevance of this information. We assume no liability for any errors, omissions, or actions taken based on the content herein. For the most accurate and current information, consult directly with your local government benefit program administrators. Some elements of this content may be subject to programmatic refinement for improved clarity or relevance. As the old saying goes, 'Trust, but verify'—especially when dealing with official programs. Note: The narratives in our articles are imaginative illustrations. Characters, places, and specific elements are altered or purely fictional, intended only for educational and demonstrative use. You typically must work directly with the government to qualify for your program or benefits. This website and its contents are for informational purposes only. We do not claim responsibility for its accuracy.