Understanding how part-time work can affect your Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits is crucial for ensuring you maintain the support you need while exploring opportunities to increase your income. At Disability Advocates Group Florida, we’re here to help you navigate the rules and regulations surrounding part-time work and disability benefits so you can make informed decisions without jeopardizing your financial stability.
Can You Work Part-Time While Receiving Disability Benefits?
Yes, you can work part-time while receiving SSD benefits, but strict guidelines are set by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to determine how much you can earn without risking your benefits. These guidelines primarily revolve around Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limits.
In 2024, the SSA considers income above $1,550 per month ($2,590 for blind individuals) to be substantial. If you exceed this threshold, the SSA may determine that you are capable of engaging in gainful work, which could lead to the suspension or termination of your benefits.
However, earning less than the SGA limit typically allows you to maintain your benefits while working part-time. It’s essential to report your income accurately to the SSA to avoid overpayment issues or potential penalties.
The Trial Work Period (TWP)
The SSA offers a Trial Work Period (TWP) to encourage individuals receiving SSD benefits to test their ability to work without immediately losing their benefits. During the TWP, you can earn any amount of income for up to nine months within a rolling 60-month period without affecting your benefits.
Each month you earn over a certain threshold ($1,110 in 2024) counts as a trial work month. After completing your TWP, you enter an extended eligibility period, during which your benefits may continue for any month you earn below the SGA limit.
The TWP provides a safety net, allowing you to assess whether part-time work is sustainable or beneficial for your circumstances.
What Types of Work Are Permitted?
The SSA evaluates the type of work you perform and your earnings to determine how part-time work impacts your disability benefits. Work that aligns with your medical restrictions and does not contradict your disability claim is generally acceptable.
For instance, light or sedentary work that doesn’t exacerbate your condition is more likely to be permissible. On the other hand, jobs that involve significant physical activity or conflict with your stated limitations could raise red flags during SSA reviews.
Reporting Income and Changes in Employment
Transparency is key when working part-time while receiving SSD benefits. The SSA requires beneficiaries to report:
- Gross monthly earnings from part-time work
- Work schedule changes, including hours worked
- Employment status changes, such as starting or ending a job
- Work-related expenses, such as transportation or special equipment costs
Failing to report income accurately can result in overpayment, where you may be required to repay benefits you were not entitled to receive. Consistent and timely reporting helps you avoid complications and ensures compliance with SSA regulations.
How Work Incentives Can Help
The SSA offers several work incentives to support beneficiaries who wish to work part-time without immediately losing their benefits. These programs aim to ease the transition and provide financial support while you re-enter the workforce.
Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE)
After your TWP ends, the EPE lasts for 36 months. You may continue receiving benefits for any month your earnings fall below the SGA limit.
Impairment-Related Work Expenses (IRWE)
If you incur expenses directly related to your disability that enable you to work (IRWE), such as specialized equipment or transportation, the SSA may deduct these costs from your earnings when calculating SGA.
Expedited Reinstatement (EXR)
If you lose your benefits due to earnings exceeding the SGA limit but find you can no longer work due to your disability, expedited reinstatement allows you to resume benefits without reapplying.
These programs provide additional layers of financial security, allowing you to explore part-time work confidently.
Potential Risks of Part-Time Work
While part-time work offers financial and personal benefits, it’s essential to understand the potential risks. Consistently earning above the SGA threshold could lead to a loss of benefits. Additionally, performing tasks outside your stated limitations may trigger a review of your medical condition, potentially jeopardizing your SSD eligibility.
Carefully consider your physical and financial capabilities before committing to part-time work, and seek guidance to ensure you stay within the SSA’s guidelines.
How We Can Help
Navigating the complexities of working part-time while receiving SSD benefits can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Disability Advocates Group Florida, we assist clients in understanding the rules, reporting income accurately, and maximizing the benefits of SSA work incentive programs.
Whether you’re considering part-time work or need help resolving an issue with the SSA, our team is here to provide personalized guidance tailored to your unique situation. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the next step toward financial stability and peace of mind.