Working While Receiving Disability Benefits

Social Security disability benefits are provided to those who are severely or permanently disabled who are unable to work.

If you are able to begin performing substantial gainful activity and make more than the established income limit of $1,090 per month, your benefits will most likely stop. However, there are some exceptions to this rule.

Trial Work Period

For recipients of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) a trial work period is available in which you can begin to work and earn more than the income limit without losing your benefits.

This nine-month trial period allows you to test your ability to work while still receiving SSDI. The Social Security Administration (SSA) counts any month as part of the trial work month if you earn more than $780 or work more than 80 hours.

Extended Period of Eligibility

After a nine-month trial work period is completed, you are still eligible for disability benefits for a period of 36 months. If you earn more than $1,090 in a month, you will not receive benefits that month. However, if your income falls below that level for any given month during this period, you can receive SSDI for those months.

Expedited Reinstatement

If you have returned to work and your disability forces you to stop working within five years, you will be able to receive disability benefits again without having to file a new application for benefits.

Working and SSI Benefits

You are allowed to work while receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) so long as your income does not exceed the SSA’s limit.

Reporting Work

The SSA requires that you report information about your job if you are working. You will need to report the beginning and end date; changes to pay, duties or hours; and if you have any expenses related to your work. The SSA also requires a monthly report of your wages.

The Phoenix Social Security Disability benefits lawyers at Dayes Law Firm PC are dedicated to helping those who have been denied disability benefits get the help they need.

Call 1-800-503-2000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form today for a free consultation.