How much money can you earn if youʼre on SSDI?

Living with a disability can present many challenges, one of which is financial strain. Fortunately, there are programs like Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) that provide financial assistance to individuals who are unable to work due to a disability. The amount of money you can earn while on SSDI varies depending on several factors. Let’s delve into the specifics of how much money you can earn if you’re on SSDI.

The amount of money you can earn while on SSDI is determined by the Social Security Administration (SSA) based on your work history and current disability. The SSA uses a complex formula to calculate your monthly benefit amount, taking into consideration your average lifetime earnings prior to becoming disabled.

In general, the SSA defines substantial gainful activity (SGA) as earning more than a certain amount per month. For 2021, the SGA amount is $1,310 for non-blind individuals and $2,190 for blind individuals. If you earn more than the SGA amount, your SSDI benefits may be reduced or discontinued.

However, SSDI beneficiaries are allowed to earn income through work without losing their benefits. The SSA has established rules, such as the Trial Work Period and the Extended Period of Eligibility, to encourage individuals on SSDI to explore employment opportunities.

During the Trial Work Period, you can test your ability to work while still receiving full SSDI benefits. In 2021, any month in which you earn more than $940 is considered a trial work month. You are allowed nine trial work months within a rolling 60-month period.

Following the Trial Work Period, the Extended Period of Eligibility begins. During this period, you can continue to receive SSDI benefits for any month in which you do not engage in SGA. The Extended Period of Eligibility lasts for 36 months.

After the Extended Period of Eligibility ends, you may still be eligible for SSDI benefits if your earnings fall below the SGA threshold. The SSA also offers various work incentives, such as Impairment-Related Work Expenses and the Plan to Achieve Self-Support, to support individuals in transitioning back to work.

Ultimately, the amount of money you can earn while on SSDI depends on your individual circumstances. It’s essential to consult with the SSA or a disability advocate to understand how working will impact your SSDI benefits.

FAQs:

1. Can I work while receiving SSDI benefits?

Yes, SSDI beneficiaries are allowed to work and earn income without losing their benefits, as long as their earnings do not exceed the SGA threshold.

2. What is the SGA amount for SSDI beneficiaries in 2021?

The SGA amount is $1,310 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,190 per month for blind individuals in 2021.

3. How does the Trial Work Period affect SSDI benefits?

During the Trial Work Period, SSDI beneficiaries can test their ability to work while still receiving full benefits. Any month in which you earn more than $940 is considered a trial work month.

4. How long does the Trial Work Period last?

The Trial Work Period lasts for nine months within a rolling 60-month period.

5. What is the Extended Period of Eligibility?

The Extended Period of Eligibility follows the Trial Work Period and allows SSDI beneficiaries to continue receiving benefits for any month in which they do not engage in SGA.

6. How long does the Extended Period of Eligibility last?

The Extended Period of Eligibility lasts for 36 months after the Trial Work Period ends.

7. What happens after the Extended Period of Eligibility ends?

After the Extended Period of Eligibility, SSDI beneficiaries may still be eligible for benefits if their earnings fall below the SGA threshold.

8. Are there any work incentives for SSDI beneficiaries?

Yes, the SSA offers various work incentives, such as Impairment-Related Work Expenses and the Plan to Achieve Self-Support, to support individuals in transitioning back to work.

9. Can I receive SSDI benefits if I earn more than the SGA amount?

If you earn more than the SGA amount, your SSDI benefits may be reduced or discontinued, depending on your individual circumstances.

10. How can I determine how working will impact my SSDI benefits?

It’s essential to consult with the SSA or a disability advocate to understand how working will impact your SSDI benefits based on your specific situation.

11. Can I work part-time while receiving SSDI benefits?

Yes, you can work part-time while receiving SSDI benefits, as long as your earnings do not exceed the SGA threshold.

12. Are there any resources available to help SSDI beneficiaries return to work?

Yes, the SSA provides resources and programs to help SSDI beneficiaries return to work, such as vocational rehabilitation services and employment supports.

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