If you have a long-term disability and you receive benefits from the Social Security Administration, those benefits are probably a significant source of financial security and support while you’re unable to work.
In some cases, having a disability may mean that you are unable to work for the foreseeable future- or perhaps permanently. In other more fortunate cases, however, you may reach a point where you feel that you may be able to return to some kind of work or earn income in some way.
If this is the case, you may wonder whether or not you can do so and still continue receiving Social Security disability benefits, and if so, how much. Let’s take a closer look at the law together.
A Look at Available Return-to-Work Incentives
First, and most importantly, the good news for those who are considering a return to work is that the Social Security Administration wants to do what it can to encourage people to do so. In fact, the Social Security Administration offers several incentives for those attempting to return to work.
The Ticket to Work Program
One of the most popular incentives offered for those wanting to return to work is the “Ticket to Work” program. Ticket to Work is a program that offers assistance to employees ages 18 to 64 with their attempts to return to work.
During the time they are participating in Ticket to Work, employees may continue to receive their disability benefits, as well as the Medicaid and or Medicare that they need. Additionally, there are protections available to assist with resuming disability benefits if an employee is ultimately unable to continue working for the long term.
The program is free, and participation is voluntary. Those who choose to do so will receive assistance with things like:
- On-the-job training
- Vocational rehabilitation
- Job search services
- Help with necessary accommodations
- Various other types of employment support.
To learn more about the Ticket to Work program, interested individuals can visit www.choosework.ssa.gov or call the Ticket to Work helpline at 1–866–968–7842.
Trial Work Period
In addition to the Ticket to Work program, the Social Security Administration also gives those attempting to return to work the opportunity to have a “trial work period.” The goal of the trial work period is to provide a period of time for a disabled individual to see how he or she can adjust to the return to work while still receiving the disability benefits that provide important financial stability.
The trial work period is typically nine months, allotted over no more than five years. While the months do not have to be consecutive, one after the other, they do need to occur within the five-year period.
When the trial work period ends, one can transition to full-time work if they are able to do so. In other cases, those who cannot continue working may continue to receive disability benefits from the Social Security Administration.
Knowing Your Limits
Although incentives are offered for those who want to return to work, it is still important to understand that there are limits on how much an individual can earn once they are no longer participating in an incentive program.
This income limit that can be earned while still receiving disability benefits is known as the “substantial gainful activity” (SGA) limit. The Social Security Administration often adjusts this limit annually to reflect changes in the cost of living. In 2024, the SGA is $1550 for a disabled individual who is not blind and $2590 for a person with blindness.
If you are disabled and receiving benefits, and you earn or receive income in an amount over these limits, you will no longer be able to continue to collect disability benefits at the same time. In the future, if you stop working, you may be able to reapply for benefits, depending upon your circumstances.
Although returning to work is not necessarily an option for everyone, it may be worth pursuing if it is an option for you. Understandably, however, any legal issue surrounding disability benefits can seem complex. For that reason, advice from a knowledgeable and experienced legal team will be essential. At Muse Disability, we’re here to help.
Muse Disability – Here For You
At Muse Disability, we know and understand every aspect of disability law. We know how important these benefits can be as a source of financial support and stability when you’re unable to work because of a disability. We also know that the law can seem confusing and complicated. That’s why we’re here to help. When you choose our legal team, you’re choosing a team that will fight for you every step of the way as you pursue the benefits you need and deserve. If you’re ready to get started, give us a call today. We look forward to helping you soon.