Working While Claiming Benefits: A Guide to Working Options While Receiving Disability Benefits

When you are receiving disability benefits, it is important to understand the rules and regulations regarding working while claiming these benefits. Many individuals with disabilities are capable of working to some extent, and the government recognizes this by offering programs that allow individuals to work while still receiving disability benefits.

1. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

If you are receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you are allowed to work and earn a certain amount of income without jeopardizing your benefits. This is known as the "Trial Work Period." During this period, which usually lasts for 9 months, you can test your ability to work and still receive your full disability benefits. In 2021, any month in which your earnings exceed $940 is considered a trial work month.

After the trial work period, there is an extended period of eligibility during which you can continue to receive benefits for any month in which your earnings are below the substantial gainful activity (SGA) level. In 2021, the SGA level is $1,310 for non-blind individuals and $2,190 for blind individuals.

2. Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

If you are receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI), the rules regarding working while claiming benefits are slightly different. With SSI, you are allowed to work and earn income, but your benefits will be reduced based on your earnings. For every dollar you earn, your SSI benefits will be reduced by 50 cents.

It is important to report your earnings to the Social Security Administration (SSA) so that they can adjust your benefits accordingly. Failure to report your earnings could result in overpayment, which you will be required to pay back.

3. Ticket to Work Program

The Ticket to Work program is a free and voluntary program offered by the SSA that helps individuals with disabilities find suitable employment. This program provides access to various employment support services, such as vocational rehabilitation, job training, and job placement assistance.

By participating in the Ticket to Work program, you can explore your options for employment while still receiving disability benefits. The program also offers certain incentives and protections to encourage individuals to return to work, such as continued Medicare or Medicaid coverage and protection from medical Continuing Disability Reviews.

Conclusion

Working while claiming disability benefits is possible, but it is important to understand the rules and regulations surrounding allowable work options. Whether you are receiving SSDI or SSI, there are programs in place to support individuals with disabilities who wish to work. The Ticket to Work program provides additional resources and incentives to help you navigate the process of returning to work. By understanding your options and reporting your earnings accurately, you can successfully work while claiming disability benefits.