Can you work if you receive Social Security Disability? This is a question that often arises for individuals who have been diagnosed with a disabling condition and are eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). The answer is not straightforward, as it depends on various factors including the severity of the disability, the type of work you can perform, and the limitations imposed by your condition.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is designed to provide financial support to individuals who are unable to work due to a severe and long-term medical condition. To qualify for SSDI, you must have worked and paid into the Social Security system for a certain number of years. If you are approved for SSDI, you may be eligible to receive monthly benefits, which can help cover your living expenses.
However, receiving SSDI does not necessarily mean you cannot work at all. The Social Security Administration (SSA) has established a trial work period, which allows you to work and still receive your SSDI benefits for a limited time. During the trial work period, which typically lasts nine months, you can earn up to $1,310 per month in 2023 without affecting your SSDI benefits. After the trial work period, your benefits may be suspended if your earnings exceed a certain threshold.
It is important to note that there are also other types of work that may not affect your SSDI benefits. For example, if you work part-time or engage in self-employment, your SSDI benefits may still be intact, as long as your earnings do not exceed the substantial gainful activity (SGA) level. The SGA level is adjusted annually and is currently set at $1,350 per month for 2023.
However, if you are unable to perform any type of work due to your disability, you may be eligible for an extension of your trial work period. This extension is known as the extended period of eligibility and allows you to continue receiving SSDI benefits for up to 36 months after the trial work period ends, as long as you remain disabled.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is another program that provides financial assistance to individuals with limited income and resources, regardless of their work history. Unlike SSDI, SSI does not have a trial work period. However, SSI recipients may be able to work and still receive their benefits, as long as their earnings do not exceed the SGA level.
It is crucial to understand that working while receiving SSDI or SSI can have tax implications. Your SSDI benefits may be taxable if your combined income (including your earnings) exceeds a certain threshold. It is advisable to consult a tax professional or the SSA for guidance on how to report your earnings and any potential tax obligations.
In conclusion, while receiving Social Security Disability benefits, you can still work, but there are limitations and rules to follow. It is essential to stay informed about the SSA’s guidelines and regulations to ensure that you continue to receive the financial support you need while exploring your work options.
