If you’re considering getting a job while receiving Social Security Disability benefits, it’s important to understand the rules for working while on SSDI. Although the Social Security Administration (SSA) recognizes the importance of empowering people to reenter the workforce when possible, there are income limits and other conditions that can affect your SSDI benefits. Our Social Security Disability lawyers at Nappa, Monterosso & Poznansky, LLP, help clients in the greater New York City area understand SSA guidelines and other factors to consider while working on SSDI.
The Trial Work Period
The Trial Work Period (TWP) offers a way for Social Security Disability recipients to test their ability to work without jeopardizing their benefits. The Trial Work Period (TWP) is designed to encourage individuals with disabilities to explore employment opportunities and determine whether they can sustain substantial gainful activity (SGA) over an extended period. The TWP typically spans nine months within a rolling 60-month period. You can continue to receive your SSDI benefits during this period, regardless of the amount you earn.
Extended Period of Eligibility
Following the TWP, the Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE) begins. This is a 36-month period in which SSDI recipients can continue to receive benefits if their earnings remain below the SGA threshold. As of 2023, you can make no more than $1,470 per month or $2,460 if you are blind, otherwise, your SSDI benefits will be reduced or halted. If your Social Security Disability benefits have ended due to your earnings but you are still disabled, you may be able to continue to receive government-funded healthcare benefits like Medicare for up to 96 months.
Reporting Your Work Activity
Communication with the SSA is crucial when it comes to working while on SSDI. You are obligated to report any changes in employment status, including starting a new job, changes in income, and improvements in your medical condition. Keep your SSDI attorney up to date so they can report this information to the SSA for you.
Expedited Reinstatement
The SSA recognizes that the nature of an injury or disability and employment opportunities can change quickly. If your SSDI benefits have been suspended due to your earnings and you’re unable to continue working because of your disability, you can request an expedited reinstatement of benefits. You’ll be able to receive Social Security Disability benefits without having to go through the entire application process again. If you’re having trouble with the expedited reinstatement process, contact our attorneys for assistance.
Work Incentives and Support
The SSA provides various work incentives and support programs to encourage Social Security Disability recipients to reenter the workforce. These incentives are designed to make the transition to the workforce smoother and help individuals become financially self-sufficient. Examples include:
- The Ticket to Work Program: This is a voluntary program that offers employment support services, vocational rehabilitation, and other resources to SSDI recipients. By participating in this program, you can explore work opportunities while maintaining access to necessary government-funded healthcare benefits.
- Vocational Rehabilitation Services: These services help SSDI recipients with preparing for, finding, and maintaining employment. This may include job training, counseling, assistive technology, and other resources to enhance employability.
How an SSDI Lawyer Can Help
Understanding the rules and guidelines for SSA reporting obligations, work activities, and available support programs is vital. Having a financial safety net during the initial stages of re-employment can empower you to discover a new career path, but it’s important to be cautious to avoid putting yourself in a precarious financial situation or pushing too hard and suffering a workplace injury.
An experienced Social Security Disability lawyer in the greater New York City area can provide guidance based on your specific circumstances and help you obtain the maximum amount of SSDI benefits you may be entitled to receive while working. Nappa, Monterosso & Poznansky, LLP, have a record of success when it comes to handling SSDI claims. We can help you find the best path forward and give you peace of mind.
Contact an SSDI Lawyer in the Greater NYC Area
At Nappa, Monterosso & Poznansky, LLP, our Social Security Disability attorneys are dedicated to serving injured workers and SSDI applicants in the greater NYC area. Attorney and partner Rolando Cubela is proud to assist our Spanish-speaking clients. To schedule a free consultation with a Social Security Disability lawyer in the greater New York City area, call us at 718-273-9000 or contact us online.
