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Can I Work While Receiving Social Security Disability Benefits?

Serving Families Throughout Norristown
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Trial Working Period

Are you worried about whether or not you can work while receiving Social Security Disability benefits? You're not alone. Many people are unsure of their rights and responsibilities regarding working while on Social Security Disability (SSD). Fortunately, the law provides certain protections for those who wish to try nine months of work to determine if they can still return to employment. This blog will discuss how this process works and your rights as someone considering returning to work on SSD.

A Work Trial Period

The Social Security Administration (SSA) allows those on SSD to participate in a work trial period for up to nine months. This period provides an opportunity to test whether a person can still perform substantial gainful activity (SGA). During this trial period, you can earn up to the SGA limit ($1,310 per month in 2021), and you may still receive your monthly SSD benefits.

It's important to note that the SSA will closely monitor your activity during this trial period. If you earn too much, or if they believe you are no longer disabled, then your benefits could be stopped or suspended. Therefore, it is crucial that you keep detailed records of your earnings during the trial period and that you contact the SSA if you have any questions or concerns.

Rights During a Work Trial Period

During your work trial period, you have certain rights that the SSA must respect. These include:

  • The right to receive information on how to calculate your disability-related earnings.

  • The right to challenge the SSA's decision regarding your eligibility for work incentives.

  • The right to request an appeal of any suspension or termination of benefits.

  • The right to receive free vocational rehabilitation services if you cannot work in gainful employment after completing your trial period.

Get Help From a Social Security Disability Attorney

Working while on Social Security Disability can be an intimidating process. Fortunately, the SSA allows those on SSD to participate in a 9-month trial period to determine if they can still perform substantial gainful activity (SGA). During this time, you have certain rights that must be respected by the SSA, including the right to receive information on calculating your disability-related earnings and the right to challenge the SSA's decision. It is important that you work with a dedicated SSD attorney throughout this process to ensure your rights are protected.

For help navigating SSD, contact the team at Rubin & Badame, Attorneys at Law, P.C.. Our Social Security Disability attorneys are here to help.


Learn more or get started by calling (610) 595-4917 or visiting our website.