Can you work and collect SSDI at the same time? This is a common question among individuals who are receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. The answer to this question depends on several factors, including the type of work you are doing, the amount of income you earn, and the duration of your SSDI benefits. In this article, we will explore the relationship between working and collecting SSDI benefits, providing you with valuable insights to help you make informed decisions about your financial future.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has specific rules regarding the work restrictions for SSDI recipients. According to these rules, you can work and collect SSDI simultaneously, but there are certain limitations. The primary concern is your earnings, as they can affect your SSDI benefits.
Understanding SSDI Earnings Limits
To understand how working and collecting SSDI can coexist, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the SSDI earnings limits. The SSA has established a trial work period and an extended period of eligibility, which are designed to help SSDI recipients transition back into the workforce without losing their benefits.
During the trial work period, which lasts for nine months within a 60-month period, you can earn as much as you want without affecting your SSDI benefits. However, after the trial work period ends, your SSDI benefits may be reduced or suspended if your earnings exceed a certain threshold.
The SSA’s current earnings limit for SSDI recipients is $1,310 per month in 2021. If your earnings exceed this amount, your SSDI benefits will be reduced by $1 for every $2 you earn over the limit. Once your earnings exceed the substantial gainful activity (SGA) limit, which is currently set at $2,190 per month in 2021, your SSDI benefits will be suspended.
Work Incentives for SSDI Recipients
The SSA offers several work incentives to encourage SSDI recipients to return to work while maintaining their benefits. These incentives include:
1. Trial Work Period: As mentioned earlier, the trial work period allows SSDI recipients to work without fear of losing their benefits for up to nine months within a 60-month period.
2. Extended Period of Eligibility: After the trial work period ends, SSDI recipients have a 36-month extended period of eligibility. During this time, they can continue to receive SSDI benefits even if their earnings exceed the SGA limit.
3. Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) Limit: SSDI recipients can earn up to the SGA limit without affecting their benefits, as long as they meet the other eligibility requirements.
4. Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PAS): This program provides SSDI recipients with financial assistance and support services to help them achieve self-sufficiency.
Conclusion
In conclusion, you can work and collect SSDI at the same time, but it’s crucial to understand the rules and limitations set by the SSA. By familiarizing yourself with the earnings limits, trial work period, and other work incentives, you can make informed decisions about your financial future. Always consult with a Social Security representative or an SSDI attorney to ensure that you are following the proper procedures and maximizing your benefits.
