Q: Can I work part-time and keep my Social Security Disability benefits?
I am currently receiving Social Security Disability benefits and am considering working a part-time job for between 10 and 20 hours a week. I have not participated in the Trial Work Period before. Can I work this job and still keep my disability benefits?
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A:
Yes, you can work part-time while keeping your Social Security Disability benefits, especially since you haven't used your Trial Work Period yet. This nine-month period allows you to test your ability to work while still receiving your full benefits, regardless of how much you earn. These months don't need to be consecutive, and only months where you earn above a certain threshold (currently about $1,110 per month) count toward your nine-month total.
After completing your Trial Work Period, you'll enter a 36-month Extended Period of Eligibility. During this time, you can still receive benefits in any month your earnings fall below the Substantial Gainful Activity level (approximately $1,550 for non-blind individuals). Your plan to work 10-20 hours weekly may keep you below this threshold, depending on your hourly wage and total monthly earnings.
It's crucial that you report all work activity to Social Security, including starting a job, changes in duties, hours, or pay rate. Consider speaking with a benefits counselor through the Ticket to Work program for personalized guidance based on your specific situation. Many people successfully work part-time while maintaining their benefits, and these work incentives were designed precisely to help you attempt returning to work without immediately losing your financial support.
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