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CAN YOU WORK WHILE RECEIVING SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY?

Working after you begin receiving Social Security disability benefits is risky.

You are allowed to work a minimal amount while receiving Title 2 or SSDI benefits.  Technically in 2024 you must earn less than $1,550 (gross) per month from any personal work activity, including self employment.  If you earn more Social Security will consider you "working at Substantial Gainful Activity" and discontinue your benefits, unless you have signed up for the "Ticket to Work" program through Social Security.

I want to be clear:  This $1,550 is the beneficiary's earnings limit.  It does not apply to such things as spouse's earnings, investment earnings, disability benefits, etc.  It is not the income that jeopardizes your disability benefits, it's the work.  Social Security will not allow an individual to work and earn $1,550 or more while getting disability benefits. 

What about part-time work that pays less than $1,550 per month?  That is technically all right because it's below the definition of "substantial gainful activity" after January 1, 2024.  However, during a continuing disability review, Social Security will review all work activity.  An individual will have a difficult time if he/she earns $1,549 per month--just $1 under the limit.  The closer you come to the $1,550 earnings limit, the more scrutiny Social Security will give you.

Best plan if you want to transition back into the work force while on SSDI:

Talk to your Social Security office about their "Ticket to Work" program.  This plan allows individuals on SSDI benefits to try to return to work without immediately giving up their disability payments or Medicare. It's a great way to test the water and see if you can go back to work while keeping your SSDI benefits, including Medicare.  Just be sure you understand the terms and conditions of TICKET TO WORK before you enter the program.



 

 

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