Can I Work While Receiving Social Security Disability Benefits?

You are allowed to work while you are applying for benefits and even after you begin receiving Social Security benefits. However, there is a limit to how much you are allowed to earn and still maintain your disability benefits. We wanted to address some of the questions most asked of us and of the Social Security Administration about various work incentives in place when it comes to working while on Disability.

This overview may help ease some of your fears, but it is always best to come see our Social Security Disability attorneys in Memphis or Jackson if you have unanswered questions. Someone from our team will take the time to explain the process to you, and to help you plan.

Frequently asked questions about working on Disability

Q: Will my Social Security Disability cash benefits stop coming if I start working after I have been approved?

A: No. You can continue to receive cash benefits for a period of time while you work.

Q: Will I still be able to receive Medicare or Medicaid services?

A: Yes. For an initial trial period, you will not lose your eligibility for Medicare or Medicaid depending on the amount of income you are earning.

Q: What is the income limit that I can earn each month without losing my SSD cash benefits?

A: There is a trial work period for the Social Security Disability program which allows you to test your ability to work for at least nine months. During this initial trial period there is no limit to how much you can earn without losing your benefits. You must report your income each month your earnings exceed $780. If you are self-employed, it is $780 per month after expenses for more than 80 hours of work in your own business. This trial period ends when you have worked nine months within a 60-month period.

Beyond that initial nine month test period, you will have an additional 36 months during which you can work and still receive benefits, however, your earnings may not exceed $1,090, or $1,820 if you are blind. The Social Security Administration will deduct work expenses for items or services that you need in order to be able to work. Examples of these expenses might include your co-payment for prescriptions, transportation under certain conditions, a personal attendant or work coach, a wheelchair or any other type of equipment that you might need in order to be to work.

Keep your local Social Security office informed

When you are working while still receiving SSD payments it is important to keep your local Social Security office informed of what you are doing. They will keep track of your working months and help ensure that you do not exceed them. If you do end up exceeding the number of months or the income limit, you will have to repay those benefits, which is typically accomplished by deducting a portion of the overpayment from your monthly benefits until your account is brought current.

When it is time to start thinking about applying for Social Security Disability benefits, we are ready to discuss your case and answer all of your questions and concerns. We will be that strong advocate by your side as you move through the arduous process of obtaining disability benefits. Please contact Bailey & Greer, PLLC to speak with an experienced West Tennessee Social Security Disability attorney.