Can You Receive Social Security Disability Benefits While Working- Exploring the Possibilities
Can you get social security disability and still work? This is a common question among individuals who are struggling with disabilities and are concerned about their ability to maintain employment. The answer to this question is both complex and nuanced, as it depends on various factors including the severity of the disability, the type of work being performed, and the individual’s income level. In this article, we will explore the intricacies of social security disability benefits and how they can coexist with working.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federal program designed to provide financial support to individuals who are unable to work due to a severe and long-term disability. To qualify for SSDI, an individual must have paid into the Social Security system through payroll taxes and meet certain medical and work history requirements. While SSDI benefits are designed to replace a portion of the individual’s income, there are specific rules regarding work and earning limits.
Understanding the Work Credits and Earnings Limits
One of the key factors in determining whether an individual can receive SSDI benefits while working is the number of work credits they have accumulated. Work credits are based on the individual’s earnings and are necessary to qualify for SSDI. Generally, an individual needs 40 work credits, with at least 20 of those credits earned in the past 10 years, to be eligible for SSDI benefits.
However, even with sufficient work credits, there are still limits on how much an individual can earn while receiving SSDI benefits. The earnings limit is subject to annual adjustments, and in 2021, the limit is $1,310 per month. This limit is known as the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit. If an individual earns more than this amount, their SSDI benefits may be reduced or suspended.
trial work period and extended period of eligibility
The Social Security Administration (SSA) recognizes that individuals with disabilities may want to test their ability to work without losing their SSDI benefits. To accommodate this, the SSA offers a trial work period and an extended period of eligibility.
During the trial work period, which lasts for nine months, an individual can earn as much as they want without affecting their SSDI benefits. After the trial work period, the individual enters the extended period of eligibility, during which they can earn up to $1,910 per month in 2021 without losing their benefits. If their earnings exceed this amount, their SSDI benefits will be suspended, but they can still qualify for benefits if they remain disabled.
Understanding the Impact of Work on SSDI Benefits
It’s important to understand that working while receiving SSDI benefits can have a significant impact on the amount of support an individual receives. If an individual’s earnings exceed the SGA limit, their SSDI benefits may be reduced or suspended. However, if the individual’s earnings are below the SGA limit, their benefits will remain intact.
In some cases, an individual may be able to return to work and still receive SSDI benefits if they are able to perform a job that requires less than full-time work. This is known as a “partial retirement” or “reduced earnings” scenario. In such cases, the individual’s SSDI benefits may be adjusted based on their earnings, but they can still receive some level of support.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is possible to receive social security disability benefits and still work, but it’s essential to understand the rules and limitations. The SSA offers various programs and resources to help individuals with disabilities navigate the complexities of work and SSDI benefits. By familiarizing themselves with these rules and seeking guidance from a qualified professional, individuals can make informed decisions about their financial security and work opportunities.
