With the arrival of July, new regulations are being enforced for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) beneficiaries. If you rely on SSDI payments, it’s essential to be aware of the updated monthly income cap, which could impact your eligibility.
The new income limit is set at $1,620 per month for most SSDI recipients. This means that while you can work and receive SSDI, your monthly earnings must not exceed this threshold to continue receiving benefits.
Can SSDI Recipients Work Without Losing Benefits?
Many people mistakenly believe that working means automatically losing their SSDI benefits, but that’s not the case.
As long as your monthly earnings remain below $1,620 ($2,590 if you are legally blind), you can maintain your job and independence while receiving support from the Social Security Administration (SSA).
However, exceeding this amount may prompt the SSA to cut off your benefits, as they might deem you no longer in need of assistance.
The Role of Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)
The Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) is a key term used by the SSA to assess whether you still qualify for SSDI. If you consistently earn above the SGA limit, it may signal that you are capable of performing substantial work, which could lead to the suspension of your SSDI payments.
Special Cases: Exceptions to the Income Limit
While most SSDI recipients must stay under the $1,620 monthly limit, there are exceptions:
- Legally blind individuals can earn up to $2,590 per month without jeopardizing their SSDI benefits.
- Trial Work Period (TWP): If you’re in the Trial Work Period, you can temporarily exceed the income limit without losing benefits. This program is designed to help SSDI recipients ease back into the workforce.
Understanding the Trial Work Period (TWP)
The Trial Work Period is a 9-month period during which SSDI recipients can test their ability to work while still receiving benefits.
During this time, you can earn above the SGA limit without losing SSDI support. However, it’s crucial to report all income and job changes to the SSA to avoid penalties.
Consequences of Failing to Report Income
It’s vital to report your earnings to the SSA. If you fail to do so, the SSA can suspend your benefits, conduct a thorough review, and even demand that you repay any overpayments.
To avoid such complications, it’s recommended to keep a monthly record of your earnings and save all payment documents. Always stay alert to any communications from the SSA.
Can You Keep SSDI While Working?
It’s entirely possible to work part-time or have irregular income without losing your SSDI benefits, as long as your earnings do not exceed $1,620 per month (or $2,590 for those who are blind).
Many recipients continue to work and supplement their income without jeopardizing their SSDI eligibility, as long as they stay within the set limits.
The Importance of Reporting Income to the SSA
If you decide to work while receiving SSDI, you must report any income changes to the SSA. You can report online, over the phone, or in person at a local SSA office. It’s also helpful to request a review to understand exactly how much you’re allowed to earn based on your specific medical and work situation.
July brings new payments and opportunities for SSDI recipients, but with these changes come new responsibilities. Stay aware of the new income limits and remember to report any income changes promptly to avoid losing your benefits. As long as you keep your earnings under the limit and follow the reporting rules, you can continue receiving SSDI while working.
FAQs
Can I work while receiving SSDI benefits?
Yes, you can work as long as your monthly earnings do not exceed $1,620 ($2,590 for blind individuals).
What happens if I exceed the SSDI income limit?
If your earnings exceed the limit, the SSA may review your case and could potentially stop your benefits.
How can I report my income to the SSA?
You can report income online, by phone, or in person at a local SSA office.