Yes – you are able to work Full-Time (FT) and maintain your eligibility for Social Security Disability benefits. There are some rules & conditions - If you are working Full-Time then you are likely earning above Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA). Each benefit type is impacted in different ways depending on your work, your earnings, and how much you have worked since being approved for SSI and/or SSDI benefits. As you read this, you will want to remember that having your “Ticket To Work” assigned to an approved Employment Network like Disability Services of America (PID: 078786236 / SS00-14-E2830) allows you to receive free services to help you maximize your benefits while working.
The Trial Work Period (TWP) allows you to work 9 months full-time and keep your full SSDI check. During the Trial Work Period, you can make as much income as you want and keep your full SSDI check. You will want assistance to know when and how to report your work activity to your SSA Field Office. To do this correctly – you want to have your Ticket to Work assigned to an Employment Network (EN).
After your 9th month of full-time employment, you will want to make a decision about what is best for you. Are you making more money working full-time than you receive on SSDI? Is there a potential to make more money and/or receive promotions? Will working full-time allow you to earn more credits towards your retirement so you will have a larger Social Security Retirement check in the future? If the answer to these questions is yes – then it may be appropriate to transition to full-time work. We can help you navigate the rules and guide you on how to have your check suspended or stopped.
After your 9th month of work you will want to work with your Ticket to Work Employment Network (EN) to receive assistance to have your check stopped to avoid an overpayment. This is important. You do not want to owe SSA any money. By choosing the right Ticket to Work (EN), our dedicated team can assist you in completing any Social Security forms to avoid administrative mistakes so you can be confident in your return to work decision.
Are you scared?
Are you asking yourself, “What happens if I work full-time now but later I get sick or cannot physically or mentally work?” Or – maybe you are asking yourself, “If I have my check suspended or stopped you will permanently lose it?” These are all common questions.
Having your Ticket to Work assigned provides you with the following protections. See the protections listed below:
- Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE)
- Expedited Reinstatement of Benefits (EXR)
- Medicaid Eligibility (1619B)
- Medicare Eligibility
You may also Meet a SSA Medical Listing of Impairment ongoing
Call us today or fill out the form on this website so we can call you back to get you started. Remember our services are free! Having your “Ticket To Work” assigned allows you to receive free services to help you maximize your benefits while working.