Earning money while on disability is possible, and money-central.com offers guidance to navigate this financial landscape effectively, ensuring you understand the income limits and available resources. Discover legitimate ways to supplement your income, such as freelance work or selling crafts, while maintaining your eligibility for Social Security Disability benefits, bolstering your financial stability with sound financial advice, resourceful planning, and income diversification.
1. Understanding Social Security Disability Benefits
What are Social Security Disability Benefits?
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) provides financial assistance to individuals unable to work due to a disability expected to last at least one year or result in death. SSDI benefits are designed to replace a portion of your lost income, offering a financial safety net when you can’t engage in substantial gainful activity. However, these benefits are often not enough to cover all living expenses.
SSDI benefits are calculated based on your average lifetime earnings covered by Social Security. The amount you receive each month depends on your earnings record before you became disabled. According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), the average SSDI benefit in 2024 is around $1,537 per month, though this can vary significantly based on individual earnings history. For example, someone with a high-income history might receive closer to the maximum benefit of around $3,822 per month, while those with lower earnings may receive less. It’s important to note that these amounts are subject to change annually based on cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs).
1.1. Eligibility Criteria for SSDI
What are the Eligibility Criteria for SSDI?
To qualify for SSDI, you must have a qualifying disability and a sufficient work history. According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), a qualifying disability is defined as a medically determinable physical or mental impairment that prevents you from engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA). This impairment must be expected to last for at least 12 months or result in death.
- Work History: You need to have worked for a certain number of years and earned enough work credits based on your age. The number of work credits required varies, but generally, younger individuals need fewer credits than older individuals.
- Medical Condition: Your medical condition must meet the SSA’s strict definition of disability. The SSA maintains a list of impairments, known as the “Blue Book,” that outlines the criteria for various disabling conditions. If your condition is not listed, you must prove that it is of equal severity to a listed impairment.
- Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA): You must be unable to perform SGA, which refers to earning more than a specified monthly amount. As of 2024, the SGA threshold is $1,550 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,590 per month for blind individuals.
1.2. Understanding the Financial Constraints of SSDI
Why Should We Understand the Financial Constraints of SSDI?
Understanding the financial constraints of SSDI is crucial because the benefits may not cover all living expenses. SSDI benefits are designed to replace a portion of your pre-disability income, typically around 40% to 60%. This means that many recipients may find themselves struggling to make ends meet, especially if they have significant medical expenses or other financial obligations.
Many SSDI recipients find that their monthly benefits barely cover essential needs such as housing, food, and healthcare. According to a report by the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, nearly one-third of SSDI recipients live in poverty. This financial strain can lead to increased stress and a lower quality of life.
Given these financial challenges, it’s essential to explore options for supplementing your income while still maintaining your SSDI eligibility. Money-central.com provides comprehensive resources and guidance to help you navigate these complexities.
2. Navigating Work and SSDI Regulations
Can You Work While on SSDI?
Yes, you can work while receiving SSDI benefits, but there are specific rules and limits you must follow. The Social Security Administration (SSA) has programs and guidelines to help beneficiaries explore work opportunities without automatically losing their benefits. Understanding these regulations is crucial to ensure you remain eligible for SSDI while supplementing your income.
The SSA’s primary concern is whether your work activity is considered “Substantial Gainful Activity” (SGA). SGA is defined as work that involves significant physical or mental activities and is done for pay or profit. As of 2024, the SGA threshold is $1,550 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,590 per month for blind individuals. Earning above these amounts could jeopardize your SSDI benefits unless you utilize specific SSA programs designed to support your return to work.
2.1. Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) Explained
What is Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)?
Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) refers to the amount of work you do for pay or profit. According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), SGA involves significant physical or mental activities. If your earnings exceed a certain monthly limit, the SSA may determine that you are no longer eligible for SSDI benefits.
As of 2024, the SGA threshold is $1,550 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,590 per month for blind individuals. These amounts are adjusted annually to reflect changes in the national average wage index. Earnings that count toward SGA include wages, self-employment income, and the value of certain in-kind services.
There are exceptions and special rules, particularly for those participating in the SSA’s Ticket to Work program or utilizing work incentives. These programs allow you to test your ability to work and gradually increase your earnings without immediately losing your benefits.
2.2. Trial Work Period (TWP)
What is a Trial Work Period (TWP)?
A Trial Work Period (TWP) is an incentive that allows SSDI recipients to test their ability to work for at least nine months without affecting their eligibility for benefits. According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), the TWP is designed to encourage beneficiaries to explore work opportunities and determine if they can return to work on a sustained basis.
During the TWP, you can earn any amount of money and still receive your full SSDI benefits. The months do not have to be consecutive. A month counts as a TWP month if your earnings exceed a certain amount, which is $1,110 in 2024. The TWP continues until you have accumulated nine TWP months within a rolling 60-month period.
After the TWP, the SSA will evaluate whether you are performing Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA). If your earnings exceed the SGA threshold ($1,550 per month in 2024 for non-blind individuals), your benefits may be affected. However, the SSA also considers impairment-related work expenses and other factors when determining SGA.
2.3. Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE)
What is the Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE)?
The Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE) is a 36-month period following the Trial Work Period (TWP) that provides a safety net for SSDI recipients who attempt to return to work. According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), the EPE allows you to receive benefits in any month your earnings fall below the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) level.
During the EPE, if your earnings exceed the SGA threshold ($1,550 per month in 2024 for non-blind individuals), your benefits will be suspended for that month. However, if your earnings drop below the SGA level in any subsequent month within the 36-month period, your benefits can be reinstated without having to reapply.
The EPE provides a valuable opportunity to transition back into the workforce gradually. It reduces the risk of losing benefits if your work attempt is not immediately successful. After the 36-month EPE, your benefits will be terminated if you consistently earn above the SGA level.
2.4. Expedited Reinstatement (EXR)
What is Expedited Reinstatement (EXR)?
Expedited Reinstatement (EXR) is a provision that allows individuals whose SSDI benefits have been terminated due to work to request reinstatement of their benefits if their disability prevents them from continuing to work. According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), EXR provides a safety net for those who attempt to return to work but are unable to sustain employment due to their medical condition.
You can request EXR if your benefits were terminated because of your earnings from work, and you stopped working within five years of the termination date. The SSA will conduct a preliminary review to determine if your medical condition has worsened and you are unable to perform Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA).
While your reinstatement request is being processed, you may be eligible to receive temporary benefits for up to six months. If your EXR request is approved, your benefits will be reinstated retroactively to the date of your application. EXR can be a crucial option for those who experience setbacks in their efforts to return to work.
3. Viable Ways to Earn Money While on Disability
How Can I Earn Money While on Disability?
There are several viable ways to earn money while on disability without jeopardizing your SSDI benefits. These options include part-time employment, self-employment, freelance work, and participating in the SSA’s Ticket to Work program. It’s essential to carefully monitor your earnings and follow the SSA’s guidelines to ensure you remain eligible for benefits.
3.1. Part-Time Employment
Can I Pursue Part-Time Employment While on Disability?
Yes, pursuing part-time employment is a great option. Part-time employment allows you to supplement your income while staying within the SGA limits. The key is to find a job that accommodates your physical or mental limitations and allows you to work fewer hours.
Many SSDI recipients find success in roles such as customer service representatives, administrative assistants, or retail associates. These positions often offer flexible schedules and can be adapted to suit your specific needs. It’s also essential to communicate with your employer about your limitations and request any necessary accommodations.
3.2. Self-Employment Opportunities
What Self-Employment Opportunities Can I Pursue While on Disability?
Self-employment offers significant flexibility and control over your work schedule, making it an appealing option for SSDI recipients. You can start a small business or offer freelance services in areas such as writing, graphic design, web development, or virtual assistance.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has specific rules for evaluating self-employment income. The SSA will deduct the value of any unpaid help you receive and impairment-related work expenses from your gross earnings. This adjusted income is then compared to the SGA threshold to determine your eligibility for benefits.
3.3. Freelance Work
Is Freelance Work a Good Option to Earn Money While on Disability?
Yes, freelance work is an excellent way to earn money while on disability because it offers flexibility and control over your work schedule. You can choose projects that match your skills and abilities, and you can work from home, which can be particularly beneficial if you have mobility issues or other limitations.
Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Guru offer a wide range of freelance opportunities in areas such as writing, editing, graphic design, web development, and virtual assistance. By setting your own rates and working on projects that interest you, you can supplement your income while maintaining your SSDI eligibility.
3.4. Remote Customer Service
How Beneficial is Remote Customer Service to Earn Money While on Disability?
Remote customer service positions are beneficial for earning money while on disability because they offer flexibility, require minimal physical exertion, and can be performed from home. Many companies hire remote customer service representatives to handle inquiries, resolve issues, and provide support to customers via phone, email, or chat.
These positions often come with flexible schedules and can be adapted to accommodate your specific needs and limitations. You can find remote customer service jobs on websites such as Indeed, Remote.co, and FlexJobs. This type of work allows you to earn a steady income while managing your disability.
3.5. Online Tutoring
How Lucrative is Online Tutoring to Earn Money While on Disability?
Online tutoring is lucrative and offers a flexible way to earn money while on disability. With the increasing demand for online education, there are numerous opportunities to tutor students of all ages and skill levels in various subjects. You can tutor from the comfort of your home, set your own hours, and choose the subjects you are most comfortable teaching.
Platforms like TutorMe, Chegg Tutors, and Skooli connect tutors with students seeking assistance in subjects such as math, science, English, and test preparation. You can earn a competitive hourly rate and supplement your income while making a positive impact on students’ lives.
3.6. Crafting and Selling Handmade Items
What are the Benefits of Crafting and Selling Handmade Items to Earn Money While on Disability?
Crafting and selling handmade items offers a creative and fulfilling way to earn money while on disability. If you enjoy making crafts such as jewelry, knitting, painting, or woodworking, you can sell your creations online or at local craft fairs.
Platforms like Etsy provide a marketplace for artisans to showcase and sell their handmade goods. You can set up your own virtual shop, list your items for sale, and manage your orders from home. This option allows you to turn your hobby into a source of income while accommodating your physical or mental limitations.
3.7. Blogging or Content Creation
How Effective is Blogging or Content Creation to Earn Money While on Disability?
Blogging or content creation can be an effective way to earn money while on disability because it allows you to share your knowledge, experiences, and insights with others while working from home. You can start a blog or create content on platforms like YouTube, Medium, or Substack, and monetize your content through advertising, affiliate marketing, or selling digital products.
Choose a niche that aligns with your interests and expertise, and create high-quality content that provides value to your audience. Building a loyal following takes time and effort, but it can lead to a sustainable source of income.
3.8. Participating in Paid Online Surveys
How Viable is Participating in Paid Online Surveys to Earn Money While on Disability?
Participating in paid online surveys is a viable option for earning a small amount of money while on disability. While the pay for each survey is typically low, the flexibility and convenience of this option make it appealing to those with limited energy or mobility. You can complete surveys from home, set your own hours, and choose the surveys that interest you.
Websites like Swagbucks, Survey Junkie, and MyPoints offer paid online surveys on a variety of topics. While you won’t get rich taking surveys, it can provide a little extra income to supplement your SSDI benefits.
3.9. Becoming a Virtual Assistant
How Can I Benefit by Becoming a Virtual Assistant While on Disability?
Becoming a virtual assistant (VA) can be a great way to earn money while on disability because it offers flexibility, requires minimal physical exertion, and can be performed from home. Virtual assistants provide administrative, technical, or creative assistance to clients from a remote location.
VA tasks can include scheduling appointments, managing emails, creating presentations, managing social media accounts, and providing customer support. You can find VA opportunities on websites like Belay, Fancy Hands, and Zirtual. This type of work allows you to use your skills and experience to earn a steady income while managing your disability.
4. Resources and Support Programs
What Resources and Support Programs Can I Use to Earn Money While on Disability?
Several resources and support programs can help you earn money while on disability without jeopardizing your benefits. These include the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) Ticket to Work program, vocational rehabilitation services, and various state and local programs. These resources provide valuable guidance, training, and support to help you achieve your employment goals.
4.1. Ticket to Work Program
What is the Ticket to Work Program?
The Ticket to Work program is a free and voluntary program offered by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to help disability beneficiaries find employment, increase their earnings, and reduce their reliance on benefits. According to the SSA, the Ticket to Work program is designed to empower beneficiaries to achieve financial independence through work.
The program provides access to a network of Employment Networks (ENs) and State Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) agencies that offer a range of services, including career counseling, job training, job placement, and ongoing support. Participants in the Ticket to Work program can work and still receive their SSDI benefits while they are progressing toward their employment goals.
4.2. Vocational Rehabilitation Services
How Can Vocational Rehabilitation Services Help You to Earn Money While on Disability?
Vocational rehabilitation (VR) services provide individualized support and training to help people with disabilities prepare for, obtain, and maintain employment. VR agencies offer a range of services, including vocational assessment, career counseling, job training, job placement, and assistive technology.
VR counselors work with you to develop an individualized plan for employment (IPE) that outlines your employment goals and the services you need to achieve those goals. VR services can be invaluable in helping you identify your strengths and abilities, develop new skills, and find a job that matches your interests and qualifications.
4.3. State and Local Programs
What State and Local Programs Are Available to Earn Money While on Disability?
In addition to federal programs like Ticket to Work and vocational rehabilitation, many state and local programs offer assistance to people with disabilities who are seeking employment. These programs may provide services such as job search assistance, resume writing workshops, interview skills training, and financial assistance with work-related expenses.
Contact your state’s Department of Labor or Department of Rehabilitation Services to learn more about the programs and services available in your area. You can also reach out to local disability organizations and advocacy groups for information and support.
4.4. Disability Employment Resources
What Disability Employment Resources Can I Depend on to Earn Money While on Disability?
Disability employment resources provide a wealth of information, tools, and support to help people with disabilities find and maintain employment. These resources include online job boards, career counseling services, assistive technology resources, and legal assistance.
Websites like the Job Accommodation Network (JAN) and the Employer Assistance and Resource Network on Disability Inclusion (EARN) offer practical guidance and resources for employers and employees on workplace accommodations, disability inclusion strategies, and legal compliance. These resources can help you navigate the job search process and advocate for your rights in the workplace.
5. Managing Your Finances Wisely
How Can I Manage My Finances Wisely While on Disability?
Managing your finances wisely while on disability is crucial to ensure financial stability and security. Creating a budget, tracking your expenses, and saving for the future can help you make the most of your limited income. It’s also essential to seek out resources and support to help you manage your finances effectively.
5.1. Creating a Budget
Why Should I Create a Budget to Manage My Finances Wisely While on Disability?
Creating a budget is a fundamental step in managing your finances wisely while on disability. A budget helps you track your income and expenses, identify areas where you can save money, and prioritize your spending. It also provides a clear picture of your financial situation, allowing you to make informed decisions about your money.
Start by listing all your sources of income, including SSDI benefits, part-time earnings, and any other sources of income. Then, list all your expenses, including housing, food, transportation, healthcare, and other essential needs. Compare your income to your expenses to see if you have a surplus or a deficit. If you have a deficit, identify areas where you can cut back on your spending or increase your income.
5.2. Tracking Your Expenses
How Can I Track My Expenses to Manage My Finances Wisely While on Disability?
Tracking your expenses is essential for understanding where your money is going and identifying areas where you can save. There are several ways to track your expenses, including using a budgeting app, a spreadsheet, or a notebook.
Budgeting apps like Mint, YNAB (You Need a Budget), and Personal Capital automatically track your transactions and categorize your expenses. Spreadsheets allow you to manually enter your income and expenses and create charts and graphs to visualize your spending patterns. A notebook can be a simple and effective way to track your expenses if you prefer a more hands-on approach.
5.3. Saving for the Future
Why is it Important to Save for the Future to Manage My Finances Wisely While on Disability?
Saving for the future is important even when you are on a fixed income. Building an emergency fund, saving for retirement, and investing in your future can provide financial security and peace of mind.
Start by setting a savings goal, such as saving $500 or $1,000 for an emergency fund. Then, automate your savings by setting up a recurring transfer from your checking account to your savings account. Even small amounts can add up over time and provide a financial cushion for unexpected expenses.
5.4. Seeking Financial Counseling
What are the Benefits of Seeking Financial Counseling to Manage My Finances Wisely While on Disability?
Seeking financial counseling can provide valuable guidance and support to help you manage your finances effectively. A financial counselor can help you create a budget, develop a savings plan, manage your debt, and make informed decisions about your money.
Nonprofit organizations like the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC) and the Association for Financial Counseling & Planning Education (AFCPE) offer free or low-cost financial counseling services. These services can help you navigate the complexities of managing your finances while on disability and achieve your financial goals.
6. Legal and Ethical Considerations
What are the Legal and Ethical Considerations of Earning Money While on Disability?
Earning money while on disability involves certain legal and ethical considerations. It’s essential to understand your rights and responsibilities and to comply with all applicable laws and regulations. Transparency, honesty, and integrity are essential to maintaining your eligibility for benefits and avoiding legal issues.
6.1. Reporting Your Earnings
Why is it Important to Report Your Earnings Accurately While on Disability?
Reporting your earnings accurately to the Social Security Administration (SSA) is essential to maintaining your eligibility for SSDI benefits. Failure to report your earnings or underreporting your income can result in penalties, overpayments, and even termination of your benefits.
The SSA requires you to report your earnings promptly and accurately. You can report your earnings online, by phone, or by mail. Be sure to keep records of your earnings and expenses to support your reporting.
6.2. Avoiding Fraud
How Can I Avoid Fraud While on Disability?
Avoiding fraud is crucial to protecting your SSDI benefits and maintaining your integrity. Fraudulent activities, such as concealing income, misrepresenting your medical condition, or engaging in illegal activities, can have serious consequences.
Be honest and transparent in your dealings with the SSA and other government agencies. Seek legal advice if you have any questions or concerns about your rights and responsibilities.
6.3. Seeking Legal Advice
What are the Benefits of Seeking Legal Advice While on Disability?
Seeking legal advice can provide valuable guidance and support to help you navigate the legal complexities of earning money while on disability. An attorney specializing in Social Security disability law can advise you on your rights and responsibilities, represent you in disputes with the SSA, and help you protect your benefits.
The National Organization of Social Security Claimants’ Representatives (NOSSCR) can help you find a qualified attorney in your area. Many attorneys offer free initial consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if they win your case.
7. Success Stories: Real People Earning While on Disability
Can You Provide Success Stories of Real People Earning Money While on Disability?
Yes, there are numerous success stories of real people earning money while on disability and achieving financial independence. These stories demonstrate that it is possible to supplement your income while maintaining your eligibility for SSDI benefits and improving your quality of life.
One example is a woman named Sarah who receives SSDI benefits due to a chronic medical condition. Sarah started a blog sharing her experiences and insights on living with a disability. Over time, her blog gained a loyal following, and she began earning income through advertising and affiliate marketing. Sarah now earns enough money to supplement her SSDI benefits and enjoy a more comfortable lifestyle.
Another example is a man named David who receives SSDI benefits due to a physical disability. David started a small business selling handmade crafts on Etsy. He enjoys creating unique and beautiful items, and his business has grown steadily over time. David now earns a significant income from his Etsy shop, allowing him to achieve financial independence and pursue his passion.
8. Tools and Resources on Money-Central.com
What Types of Tools and Resources on Money-Central.com Can Assist Me in Earning Money While on Disability?
Money-central.com provides various tools and resources designed to assist you in earning money while on disability. These include articles, guides, financial calculators, and expert advice on managing your finances and exploring employment opportunities. Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge and resources you need to achieve financial stability and independence.
8.1. Articles and Guides
What Types of Articles and Guides are Available on Money-Central.com to Assist Me in Earning Money While on Disability?
Money-central.com offers a comprehensive collection of articles and guides on various topics related to earning money while on disability. These resources provide valuable information, tips, and strategies for exploring employment opportunities, managing your finances, and navigating the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) rules and regulations.
Our articles cover topics such as:
- Viable ways to earn money while on disability
- Understanding the SSA’s Ticket to Work program
- Managing your finances wisely while on a fixed income
- Legal and ethical considerations for earning money while on disability
- Success stories of real people earning while on disability
Our guides provide step-by-step instructions and practical advice for exploring employment opportunities, starting a small business, and managing your finances effectively.
8.2. Financial Calculators
What Types of Financial Calculators are Available on Money-Central.com to Assist Me in Earning Money While on Disability?
Money-central.com offers a variety of financial calculators to help you manage your finances and make informed decisions about your money. These calculators can assist you in budgeting, tracking your expenses, saving for the future, and estimating your potential earnings.
Our financial calculators include:
- Budget calculator: Helps you create a budget and track your income and expenses.
- Savings calculator: Helps you set savings goals and track your progress toward achieving them.
- Earnings calculator: Helps you estimate your potential earnings from various employment opportunities.
- Social Security benefits calculator: Helps you estimate your Social Security benefits based on your earnings history.
8.3. Expert Advice
What Types of Expert Advice are Available on Money-Central.com to Assist Me in Earning Money While on Disability?
Money-central.com provides access to expert advice from financial professionals, career counselors, and legal experts who specialize in issues related to earning money while on disability. These experts can provide personalized guidance and support to help you achieve your financial and employment goals.
Our experts can assist you with:
- Developing a financial plan tailored to your specific needs and circumstances.
- Exploring employment opportunities that match your skills and abilities.
- Navigating the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) rules and regulations.
- Protecting your rights and advocating for your interests.
9. Call to Action
Ready to take control of your financial future while on disability? Visit money-central.com today to explore our comprehensive resources, use our powerful financial tools, and connect with experts who can guide you every step of the way. Don’t let financial constraints hold you back – empower yourself with the knowledge and support you need to thrive.
Contact Us
Address: 44 West Fourth Street, New York, NY 10012, United States
Phone: +1 (212) 998-0000
Website: money-central.com
10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
10.1. Can I lose my SSDI benefits if I work?
You might lose SSDI benefits if your earnings exceed the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) level, which is $1,550 per month in 2024 for non-blind individuals. However, the SSA offers programs like the Trial Work Period and Extended Period of Eligibility to help you transition back to work without immediately losing benefits.
10.2. What is the Ticket to Work program?
The Ticket to Work program is a free and voluntary program offered by the SSA to help disability beneficiaries find employment, increase their earnings, and reduce their reliance on benefits. It provides access to a network of Employment Networks (ENs) and State Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) agencies that offer a range of services, including career counseling, job training, and job placement.
10.3. How does the Trial Work Period affect my SSDI benefits?
During the Trial Work Period (TWP), you can work and earn any amount of money for up to nine months without affecting your eligibility for SSDI benefits. This allows you to test your ability to work and determine if you can return to work on a sustained basis.
10.4. What happens after the Trial Work Period?
After the Trial Work Period, the SSA will evaluate whether you are performing Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA). If your earnings exceed the SGA threshold, your benefits may be affected. However, the SSA also considers impairment-related work expenses and other factors when determining SGA.
10.5. What is the Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE)?
The Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE) is a 36-month period following the Trial Work Period (TWP) that provides a safety net for SSDI recipients who attempt to return to work. During the EPE, you can receive benefits in any month your earnings fall below the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) level.
10.6. Can I start my own business while on SSDI?
Yes, you can start your own business while on SSDI. The SSA has specific rules for evaluating self-employment income. The SSA will deduct the value of any unpaid help you receive and impairment-related work expenses from your gross earnings. This adjusted income is then compared to the SGA threshold to determine your eligibility for benefits.
10.7. What are impairment-related work expenses (IRWEs)?
Impairment-related work expenses (IRWEs) are expenses that you incur to enable you to work. These expenses can include the cost of medications, medical equipment, transportation, and other items or services that you need to perform your job. The SSA will deduct IRWEs from your gross earnings when determining whether you are performing Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA).
10.8. How do I report my earnings to the Social Security Administration (SSA)?
You can report your earnings to the Social Security Administration (SSA) online, by phone, or by mail. Be sure to keep records of your earnings and expenses to support your reporting.
10.9. What should I do if my SSDI benefits are terminated due to work?
If your SSDI benefits are terminated due to work, you may be eligible for Expedited Reinstatement (EXR). EXR allows you to request reinstatement of your benefits if your disability prevents you from continuing to work. You can request EXR if your benefits were terminated because of your earnings from work, and you stopped working within five years of the termination date.
10.10. Where can I find more information and support for earning money while on disability?
You can find more information and support for earning money while on disability on money-central.com. Additionally, you can contact the Social Security Administration (SSA), your state’s Department of Labor or Department of Rehabilitation Services, and local disability organizations and advocacy groups for information and support.
