Social Security offers the possibility to receive benefits if you cannot work because of a disability. There are some people who may want to find a job because they either need the money or just want to be active. However, losing their disability benefits or even reducing the total amount of their check worries them.
According to Social Security, there is good news regarding this issue. It is mainly because they offer work incentives as well as Tickets to Work programs. So, both of them could be helpful if you are in the aforementioned situation. In order to satisfy the needs of people with a disability, they have set special rules.
In fact, you might be wondering if these rules apply to Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability benefits (SSDI). Luckily, both benefits programs are on the list, so there is no need to worry. Getting your checks every month is a priority and SSA knows it. Thus, let us describe the work incentives.
What are the main work incentives Social Security offers if you get disability benefits?
First of all, cash benefits can continue for some time as you work. The same goes with Medicaid and Medicare, they do not stop while you continue working. What is more, Social Security offers rehabilitation, training, and education to improve your CV. In this way, you can find a job in a different field after the training.
On the other hand, the Ticket to Work program could also be beneficial if you want to begin working. This SSA program has plenty of things to offer. For example, you can receive job referrals, training, free vocational rehabilitation, and employment support. It allows you to have no medical check-ups to progress.
How long is the trial work period to collect benefits?
Social Security offers disability beneficiaries a trial work period of at least 9 months. By doing so, you will be able to test your ability to do your job all those months. The best thing about it is the fact that you can still receive the full amount of your Social Security disability benefits. Yes, regardless of your earnings.
Nevertheless, do not forget to report to Social Security that work. Your disability must also continue, otherwise, you will lose your benefits. As for 2023, your total earnings must be over $1,050 to be a trial work month. This trial work period goes on until you have reached nine months within a 60-month period.
Once this trial is over, you could still work and get benefits. However, the amount you earn should not exceed the limits. You could do that for up to 36 months. As long as your earnings are not what Social Security defines as substantial. They consider your earnings to be substantial those over $1,470 ($2,460 for blind people).