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Lil Missy

(17,865 posts)
Mon Nov 25, 2013, 12:26 PM Nov 2013

What is the maximum amount one can earn while on SSDI?

I'm having trouble finding anything on how much I can earn at a part time job before it affects my SSDI. Right now I work 15 hours a week and that doesn't affect disability, but it would be nice to know what the cutoff is if I can work more.

One thing I found when I researched this weeks ago is that $1040 a month is threshold amount where earnings are considered substantial. (My monthly earnings are way below that.)

Any help, or links where I can research it myself would be appreciated.

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What is the maximum amount one can earn while on SSDI? (Original Post) Lil Missy Nov 2013 OP
I always thought it was twice the amount that you're getting gopiscrap Nov 2013 #1
At one time, I thought it was up to half of the SSDI benefit, but Lil Missy Nov 2013 #3
I wish I knew libodem Nov 2013 #2
Earnings is one factor SSA considers when reviewing continued disability eligibility. pinto Nov 2013 #4
thank you! Lil Missy Nov 2013 #6
It's $1,040 in a month in 2013 but there is a 'trial work period' with no limit PoliticAverse Nov 2013 #5
very helpful links! Thank you! Lil Missy Nov 2013 #7

Lil Missy

(17,865 posts)
3. At one time, I thought it was up to half of the SSDI benefit, but
Mon Nov 25, 2013, 12:39 PM
Nov 2013

that might depend on how much your SSDI benefit is.

libodem

(19,288 posts)
2. I wish I knew
Mon Nov 25, 2013, 12:31 PM
Nov 2013

I think it may be a certain percentage rather than a set dollar amount for everyone? But I'm not sure. I need a job posting from my bed.

pinto

(106,886 posts)
4. Earnings is one factor SSA considers when reviewing continued disability eligibility.
Mon Nov 25, 2013, 01:35 PM
Nov 2013

Another is whether medical improvement is "possible" or "unlikely". $1040 is the maximum you can earn while on SSDI. If medical improvement is possible, SSA may review your eligibility in 3 years from the start date of your benefits. If unlikely, SSA may review eligibility in 7 years from the start date. If your medical disability determination is considered terminal, i.e. will result in death, SSA takes that into consideration of your ongoing eligibility.

Also considered is what type of work you are able to do or are doing in comparison with your previous work history. And the hours per month you are capable of working.

One thing to keep in mind - SSA has a specific definition of disability. It must be determined to be permanent, not short-term or intermittent. If you are currently on SSDI, that determination has already been made. Periodic reviews are customary and, iirc, required by law.

It is important to maintain all medical / medication histories current. That includes consults, one-time visits referred by your primary care provider, etc. All are part of the overall picture of your situation(s).

Overviews are here -

http://www.ssa.gov/dibplan/#sb=-1

PoliticAverse

(26,366 posts)
5. It's $1,040 in a month in 2013 but there is a 'trial work period' with no limit
Mon Nov 25, 2013, 01:37 PM
Nov 2013

($1,040 is for Social Security Disability Insurance if you aren't blind).

The $1,040 limit is for 3 years after a 'trial work period' is triggered (you are not limited
in the amount you can earn during 9 months of 'trial work period')...

For more details see:

http://ssa-custhelp.ssa.gov/app/answers/detail/a_id/317

Video: http://www.socialsecurity.gov/multimedia/video/disability_benefits/index.html

'trial work period': http://www.socialsecurity.gov/OACT/COLA/twp.html

Working While Disabled booklet (.pdf): http://www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10095.pdf

Social Security's 'Ticket to Work' website: http://www.choosework.net/

Toll free number to get questions answered on working and your benefits: 1-866-968-7842

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