Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) allows individuals with disabilities to receive financial support when unable to work full-time. However, many SSDI recipients wish to explore part-time work opportunities without losing their benefits. Here’s how to do so successfully.
Understanding the trial work period
The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers a trial work period (TWP) for SSDI recipients. This period allows individuals to test their ability to work for nine months without affecting their benefits, as long as earnings remain under a set limit, which changes annually.
Keeping income below substantial gainful activity
To avoid losing SSDI benefits, it’s essential to keep income under the SSA’s substantial gainful activity (SGA) limit. For 2024, this amount is $1,470 for non-blind individuals and $2,460 for blind individuals. Staying below this limit ensures that SSDI benefits continue, even after the TWP ends.
Utilizing work incentives
The SSA also offers work incentives, such as the Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE) and Impairment-Related Work Expenses (IRWE), which help individuals continue receiving SSDI while working. The EPE allows recipients to receive benefits during months their earnings fall below the SGA, while the IRWE deducts expenses related to their disability from gross earnings.
Reporting earnings to the SSA
It’s crucial to report all earnings to the SSA regularly to prevent overpayment and potential issues with benefit eligibility. Keeping clear records of pay stubs and related work documents helps maintain transparency and compliance with SSA regulations.
With the right strategies, SSDI recipients can explore part-time work without jeopardizing their benefits. By understanding income limits and using SSA programs, individuals can maintain financial security while increasing their independence.