There are a number of specific rules defined for working individuals applying for SSDI or SSI benefits. However, these terms differ based on the benefits pursued. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) have various criteria. If you would like a deeper understanding of the criteria for SSDI and SSI, you should consult experienced attorneys right away. A top-tier lawyer may be able to help you settle your case right away.
Working While Receiving SSDI Benefits Although an individual may receive SSDI benefits while still working, he or she cannot participate in what is known as “substantial gainful activity” (SGA). If a recipient of benefits exceeds the monthly earnings limit, he or she will stop receiving benefits. As of 2020, a person cannot exceed more than $1,260 per month. For blind people, the SGA limit is 2,110 monthly. However, there is an exception to this rule. The Social Security Administration (SSA) allows people to enter “trial work periods.” These periods are specifically for beneficiaries who are trying to re-enter the workforce. A person enjoying benefits under SSDI is eligible to earn more than the SGA limit during the trial period. This period lasts for a total of nine months. As the disabled worker tests his or her abilities during this period, SSDI benefits are still provided.
An experienced Atlanta Social Security Disability Lawyer can explain this further. As of 2020, a person earning beyond $910 monthly is considered in a trial work period. For self-employed persons, any month of over 80 work hours is considered a trial work month. When a person has completed the nine month trial work period, that person is still entitled to SSDI benefits. If the individual does not exceed $1,260 monthly on average, he or she will receive full SSDI benefits for that month. However, if the individual was able to earn $1,260 or more on average during the period, he or she will stop receiving SSDI benefits. After the trial work period, if the SSDI benefits have stopped due to your substantial income, the SSA will still allow you to apply for SSDI benefits again. You can do so in the next five years if you stop working for any disability reasons. You will not have to resubmit your application. This process is called expedited reinstatement.
Working While Receiving SSI benefits
A person can start working and continue working while receiving SSI benefits. The rules set by the SSA apply to the applicant’s income and assets. If you make too much income, you will not be approved for SSI. As of 2020, both the Federal Income Amount and the SSI Income limit are set at $783 per month. The SSA will only consider your countable income when making a determination. When your monthly income is derived from a job, the first $85 is taken out for adjustments. This amount is not considered under countable income by the SSA. Keeping aside $85, the SSA will deduct 50 cents from your benefit, for every dollar you earn in a month. If your disability demands additional impairment-related work expenses, the SSA will deduct that amount from your countable income. For example, if a person earns $1,000 per month, his benefit amount will factor in impairment-related work expenses. These expenses may include special transport for the disabled, counseling services, medical equipment and more. Impairment-related work expenses (IRWE) help offset many costs associated with your disabling condition. If your monthly countable income goes beyond $783 a month, your SSI benefits will be stopped immediately. That said, if you become disabled again, you can apply for SSI again. Contact your local Disability Attorney for more information.Reporting Requirements for SSD and SSI
Whether you are an SSDI or SSI applicant, there are a few mandated reporting requirements you must follow. All reports must be addressed to the SSA. SSDI and SSI benefit holders can provide such reports through mobile applications as well as through the SSA website. If you need help with this, get in contact with a Disability Attorney Marietta GA trusts. An SSA examiner may be more inclined to reject your application if you are working. This is why lawyers are so crucial. You may have a higher likelihood of getting accepted if you are working very infrequently, if at all. Disability Attorneys can help you make the best case for SSDI or SSI benefits. You should provide ample information. If you do not have it, your lawyer may be able to help you gather it. A top-tier disability attorney can assist you in presenting all of the vital information that you need. When your work or medical capacity changes, you need to report it to the SSA.Be sure to provide the following information:
- The start and end dates of any job(s)
- Any change to duties, pay scales or working hours
- Impairment-related work expenses (IRWE)
- Amount of monthly wages, and more
If you were receiving benefits and have returned to work, you should report by telephone by the 6th of the next month. If reporting is done by mail or in-person, it should be done by the 10th of the next month Discuss with your Social Security Disability attorney how to move forward when you return to work. Your lawyer may help you decide whether or not you should stop working before applying for SSDI or SSI benefits.
