Many people receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) worry that working part-time could put their monthly benefits at risk. In some cases, you can do part-time work while on SSDI, but the Social Security Administration (SSA) has rules that may apply to your earnings and work activity.
Can Working Part-Time Affect My SSDI?
While you may be able to work part-time while receiving SSDI, your work activity must comply with the SSA’s rules. SSDI is meant for people whose medical conditions limit their ability to maintain substantial work. While performing part-time work while on SSDI won’t automatically end your benefits, your earnings and work activity could raise questions about your continued disability status.
How Much Can You Earn Without Losing SSDI Benefits?
Current SSA rules may affect continued eligibility for SSDI benefits under SSA’s substantial gainful activity (SGA) rules. These amounts are based on your gross work earnings, not your take-home pay, and they can change each year.
However, earning below the SSDI income limits doesn’t always mean there’s no risk, particularly if your work suggests you’re capable of sustaining regular employment. Some work-related disability expenses may also affect how the SSA counts income. Report all your earnings and keep records of your pay, hours, and job duties.
What Is the SSDI Trial Work Period?
If you’re interested in potentially returning to work but worried about losing your benefits right away, the SSA allows you to engage in a trial work period. During this period, you may work at least nine months while still receiving your full SSDI benefits. You also don’t have to work those nine months consecutively — just within a rolling five-year period.
The SSA counts certain higher-earning months toward the trial work period based on income thresholds that may change each year. Following the trial work period is an extended period of eligibility, during which you may still qualify for benefits if your earnings remain below the applicable substantial gainful activity (SGA) limit.
What Happens if You Exceed SSDI Income Limits
If you earn more than the SSDI income limit, the SSA may review your continuing eligibility for SSDI benefits. After your trial work period, higher earnings can affect your monthly payments and may eventually lead to the suspension or termination of your benefits. This doesn’t always happen immediately, and some work incentives may apply. Regardless, if you fail to report your income, you may risk benefit interruptions, and you may have to repay any overpaid benefits.
When to Speak With an SSDI Lawyer About Protecting Benefits
If you’re receiving SSDI benefits but also considering trying to start working again, or if you’ve run into conflict with the SSA over your SSDI benefits, turn to an experienced South Carolina SSDI attorney at Land Parker Welch for help understanding your legal rights and options. Our firm has served South Carolina clients for over 30 years and is prepared to help you pursue the disability benefits to which you’re entitled. Contact us today for a free consultation.
