Navigating Employment and Social Benefits for SSDI Recipients

Many individuals with disabilities face the question of whether they are still entitled to receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits while engaging in employment. The answer to this question often hinges on several factors, including the location of residence, the number of individuals in the household, and the amount of SSDI benefits received. This article discusses the rules surrounding SSDI, employment, and other social benefits like food stamps (SNAP).

SSDI and Employment: Understanding SGA

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is designed to provide financial assistance to individuals who are unable to engage in substantial gainful activity (SGA). According to Social Security law, “disability” is defined as the inability to engage in any substantial gainful activity (SGA) by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment that can be expected to result in death or has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months.

However, if you are an SSDI recipient and want to participate in employment, you must abide by the SGA limit. For non-blind individuals, the SGA amount in 2022 is $1,350 per month. Statutorily blind individuals have a higher SGA limit of $2,260 per month. If your earnings exceed these amounts, you may still qualify for SSDI benefits under certain circumstances, but it is important to investigate further options.

Work Incentives for SSDI Recipients

SSDI recipients have access to several work incentives to help them transition into employment. These include, but are not limited to:

1. Trial Work Period (TWP)

This period allows you to test your ability to work for up to 9 months, during which time you can earn more than the SGA limit without affecting your SSDI benefits.

2. Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE)

Following the TWP, you can earn more than the SGA limit for a period of up to 36 months without losing your SSDI benefits.

To learn more about these incentives, you can visit the Red Book on SSA.gov.

Food Stamps (SNAP) and SSDI

While you are receiving SSDI, your ability to qualify for other social benefits like food stamps (now known as SNAP) depends on a variety of factors, including your income and household size. SNAP is based on the number of individuals in your household and your countable income and resources. This includes earnings from employment, but not all types of benefits are counted.

Home and lot: These are not counted as resources for SNAP. Supplemental Security Income (SSI): This is excluded from countable income. Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF): Also known as welfare, these benefits are not counted as income for SNAP.

It's important to note that if your income exceeds the income limits set by SNAP, you may still be eligible for reduced benefits or a transitional period to help you adjust.

Conclusion

The relationship between working and receiving SSDI benefits can vary significantly from one person to another depending on various factors. Understanding your rights and benefits under the SSDI program and exploring the available work incentives can help you navigate this complex landscape successfully.

If you need further assistance, consider consulting a Social Security representative or a disability attorney who can provide personalized guidance tailored to your specific circumstances.