Returning to work while receiving Social Security Disability benefits involves thoughtful planning to ensure a smooth and successful transition. The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides a variety of tools, resources, and protections to help beneficiaries explore employment opportunities while maintaining financial stability.
Programs such as the Trial Work Period (TWP) and Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE) allow you to test your ability to work without immediately affecting your SSDI benefits. Additionally, work incentives like expedited reinstatement ensure that you can return to benefits quickly if your attempt to work is unsuccessful.
With the right planning and use of these SSA-provided supports, beneficiaries can confidently pursue meaningful employment while safeguarding their long-term financial and healthcare needs. Disability Services of America can assist you in navigating these options, ensuring you make informed decisions and create a strategy tailored to your specific situation. With our expertise, we can help you navigate and make the most of SSA programs, providing guidance as you work toward rejoining the workforce while maintaining the necessary protections.
Begin by assigning your Ticket to Work...
This voluntary program is designed to connect you with Ticket to Work Employment Networks such as Disability Services of America, offering comprehensive support as you prepare for work, find job opportunities, and succeed in your new role. Whether you are looking for assistance with resume building, interview preparation, or navigating the job market, the program provides valuable resources to help you take the next step in your career.
One of the key benefits of this program is that it allows you to maintain your benefits while exploring various employment options, offering a safety net as you transition into the workforce. You can gain hands-on experience and gradually adjust to the demands of work without the immediate risk of losing access to critical benefits, such as healthcare and financial support. This balance gives you the time and confidence to build a sustainable and fulfilling career path, with the necessary protections in place to support you along the way.
Understand Your Earnings Thresholds
The Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) level determines how much you can earn without affecting your Social Security Disability benefits. This level varies each year and depends on factors such as whether you are blind or non-blind, and exceeding this threshold may impact your eligibility for benefits.
To help you explore employment opportunities without the immediate risk of losing your benefits, you can utilize the Trial Work Period (TWP). The TWP allows you to test your ability to work and earn income while retaining your full SSDI benefits for a set period. This period offers the flexibility to assess your ability to maintain work and make informed decisions about transitioning to full employment, all while keeping essential financial and healthcare support intact. After the TWP, if your earnings exceed the SGA level, your SSDI benefits may be reevaluated. However, the TWP provides a valuable safety net as you explore your work options.
Use Expedited Reinstatement (EXR)
Expedited Reinstatement (EXR) is a valuable safety net for individuals who have attempted to return to work but find that they are unable to continue earning at the level required to maintain their employment. If your work attempts do not succeed and you experience a loss of earnings, EXR allows you to request the reinstatement of your benefits without needing to go through the entire application process again.
This streamlined process ensures that you don’t have to start over from scratch, which can often be time-consuming and stressful. With EXR, you can receive up to six months of provisional benefits while the Social Security Administration (SSA) reviews your claim to determine whether you meet the necessary criteria to continue receiving benefits.
Consult Benefits Counselors
Our experts are here to help you understand how working may impact your benefits. We take the time to explain the complexities of how earnings, work incentives, and employment programs interact with your benefits, ensuring you have a clear picture of the potential effects. Additionally, we offer personalized, one-on-one advice that is tailored specifically to your unique circumstances and goals. Whether you're concerned about how a job might influence your healthcare, income, or long-term benefits eligibility, we provide you with the guidance needed to make informed decisions and develop a plan that works best for you.
Track Progress with a BPQY
A Benefits Planning Query (BPQY) report outlines your benefit status, earnings, and medical reviews. This document can help you make informed decisions as you transition to work.