If you are currently receiving Social Security disability benefits, you may be worried about returning back to the workforce. Even though this hesitation is understandable, the Social Security Administration has certain rules that allow you to work a part-time or full-time job without jeopardizing your monthly Social Security payments. However, before you begin searching for a new employment position, you need to understand exactly what type of work you are eligible to secure.

Trial work period

Through the trial work period, you can experiment with working while still receiving your full monthly benefit amount. For a total of nine months, over a period of 60 months, there isn’t a cap as to how much you can earn without lowering your monthly benefit payment amount. The purpose of the trial work period is to give you the opportunity to determine whether or not you can return to full time employment. If you choose to participate in this program, you need to inform your local Social Security office of the earnings you make each month.

Extended period of eligibility

After your nine-month trial work period is over, you can enter a 36-month extended period of eligibility. During this time, you can continue to receive your Social Security benefits as long as you continue to be disabled and your monthly income is less than the Social Security’s substantial gain activity threshold, which was $1,040 for non-blind recipients in 2013.

Ticket to work program

If you would like to return to work, but your injury prevents you from returning to your previous position, you may be eligible for the ticket to work program. Through this program, you can receive free vocational rehabilitation, schooling, or technical training with the ultimate goal of helping you permanently return to the workforce.

D’Agostino & Associates helps people deal with difficult legal situations and find solutions to their problems. If you would like to learn more about working and receiving Social Security disability, call us at (888) 860-5787. We offer a free initial consultation with an experienced Social Security disability lawyer.  

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