Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federally funded initiative that provides financial assistance to individuals who are unable to work due to a qualifying medical condition. Although one may work while receiving benefits, there are strict rules to follow. So what are the rules for working while on SSDI? The Law Offices of Edward. P Shaughnessy can help you figure out how working affects your benefits.
Failure to comply with the rules of SSDI can result in you immediately losing benefits. For this reason, it is important to be mindful of how much you earn and to accurately report changes. Easton, PA social security disability lawyer Shaughnessy can help you avoid critical mistakes that could put your disability benefits at risk. Contact the Law Offices of Edward. P Shaughnessy to at (610) 258-9955 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation.
Understanding Pennsylvania Social Security Disability Benefits
Social Security disability insurance (SSDI) is a federal program under the Social Security Administration (SSA). It is often combined with state-level assistance in Pennsylvania. SSDI benefits are available for people with specific long-term disabilities who meet specific work credit requirements. Those who are seeking benefits must have paid Social Security taxes on their previous work history earnings. Generally, you can earn four work credits in a year, and $1,810 is equal to one work credit. The number of credits necessary to qualify for SSDI depends on the individual’s age at the time they became disabled. Individuals who don’t meet these requirements may still be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) based on financial need and a disability. To learn more about qualifying for SSDI, take a look at these signs that you will be approved for disability in Pennsylvania.
Receiving SSDI Benefits and Returning to Work
The SSA encourages individuals to attempt to return to work if a medical review indicates that their condition has improved. In fact, the SSA’s Ticket to Work Program supports career development for SSDI recipients between the ages of 18 and 64. This free program helps SSDI beneficiaries achieve financial independence by connecting them with employment networks, job placement services, and job training opportunities. Certain rules allow you to continue receiving SSDI benefits as long as you don’t earn income exceeding the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit that is assessed annually.
Working Part-Time While On SSDI
The SSA sets a low limit on monthly earnings for those receiving SSDI benefits. You can only continue to receive SSDI benefits if your monthly earnings fall below the SGA level. Working part-time can make it easier to stay below the earnings limit.
Working Full Time While Receiving Benefits from SSDI
The increased earnings that come with full-time work may be appealing, but you must be careful if you’re receiving SSDI benefits. Typically, full-time earnings exceed SSDI income limits. It is essential to consult with a lawyer before starting full-time work to avoid SSDI overpayments.
How Much Can You Make Working on SSDI in PA?
Income thresholds for SSDI are set annually by the SSA. This number is tied to the national average wage index and inflation. Earning above this amount means you will stop receiving SSDI benefits. As of 2025, non-blind individuals can earn up to $1,620 per month before their benefits are affected. Blind individuals can earn up to $2,700 a month. Keep detailed records of all your earnings, including freelance and gig work, to protect yourself from losing your benefits.
SSDI Trial Work Period and Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE)
The SSA offers Trial Work Period and Extended Period of Eligibility programs to help people return to work. During the Trial Work Period (TWP), you can return to work for up to nine months and still get your full disability payment regardless of how much you earn. Any month you earn over the SGA limit before taxes will count towards the TWP. For self-employed individuals, months spent working more than 80 hours on their own business also fall under the TWP. The trial months do not have to be consecutive, but they must be within a rolling 5-year period.
Once you have completed your TWP, there is a 36-month period called the Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE). The EPE allows SSDI recipients to work and continue receiving benefits for 36 months, as long as earnings do not exceed the SGA limit. During the EPE period, if you earn above the SGA limit, the SSA will suspend your SSDI benefits just for that month. The first time you earn more than the SGA limit after the EPE period, the SSA will end your benefits.
How To Avoid Losing Your Disability Benefits While Working in PA
It is important to understand SSDI work rules to avoid losing your benefits. Easton insurance litigation attorney Ed Shaughnessy can help you with a wide range of SSDI matters. He has ample experience helping clients through the SSDI application process and offers continuing support once you qualify. He can help you understand and stick to the SSA’s work requirements.
Stay Within SSDI Work Rules
To maintain your SSDI benefits, you must adhere to the SSA’s annual rules for eligibility. Know the monthly income limits that apply to your earnings during both the TWP and EPE periods. Keep in mind that the SSA updates the SGA limit yearly. Don’t assume your employer understands SSDI restrictions, and keep written records of your hours worked and earnings.
SSDI Reporting Requirements
The SSA requires reports on all work activity and income to continue determining your benefit amount. If your work status or earnings amount changes, it is important to keep the SSA informed. Update the SSA about job start states, pay increases, and your job duties. Late or inaccurate reports can trigger penalties or overpayments.
Using Impairment-Related Work Expenses (IRWE) to Stay Eligible
Impairment-related work expenses (IRWEs) are out-of-pocket expenses that are directly tied to your disability and employment. These expenses are deducted from your gross income, which can help you remain under the SGA limit. IRWEs can include medical expenses and supplies, certain disposable items, and some transportation expenses related to your disability. To qualify as an IRWE, the item or service must enable you to work and be something you need due to a physical or mental impairment. It must be a reasonable cost that is not reimbursed by other sources, such as private insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid benefits. The SSA does not typically consider public transit an IRWE.
Why You Should Consult an Easton, Pennsylvania SSDI Attorney Before Returning to Work
You don’t want to risk losing your social security benefits while working on SSDI. You need a compassionate attorney who understands the complexities of SSDI cases. An attorney can explain eligibility rules for SSDI benefits, protect your rights, and ensure you comply with work rules set by the SSA.
Attorney Shaughnessy is experienced in a wide range of insurance cases. As a bad-faith insurance attorney in Easton, PA, he helps clients fight against companies that unfairly deny their benefits or claims. He also has a thorough understanding of SSDI issues and can help you work towards financial stability while abiding by SSA rules.
Pennsylvania Social Security Disability Benefits FAQ
Can I Apply for SSDI While Working?
Yes, you can apply for SSDI while working, but the ability to receive benefits depends on your earnings and the type of work you do. To qualify, you must earn under the SGA limit.
Will I Lose Medicare Coverage If I Start Working While on SSDI?
You will not necessarily lose your Medicare coverage if you start working while receiving SSDI benefits. After receiving benefits for 24 months, Social Security disability beneficiaries are automatically enrolled in Medicare benefits. You will continue to receive Medicare benefits so long as your disabling medical condition continues.
What Is Expedited Reinstatement of SSDI Benefits?
Expedited Reinstatement of SSDI benefits, also known as EXR, exists to restart your benefits after your coverage ended due to earnings exceeding the SGA limit. This process allows you to have benefits reinstated within a 5-year period without submitting a new application. Eligibility depends on meeting specific qualifications.
Can I Receive SSDI and Workers’ Compensation at the Same Time?
Yes, you can receive SSDI benefits and workers’ compensation benefits at the same time. However, workers’ compensation may reduce SSDI payments. Consult with an attorney to learn more about how workers’ compensation may affect your benefits.
Schedule a Free Consultation With Easton SSDI Lawyer Edward P. Shaughnessy
If you have been receiving disability payments, it is crucial to contact a Social Security disability attorney before you return to work. Legal support can ensure compliance with work rules and protect your financial freedom. Whether your income comes from self-employment or a traditional job, The Law Offices of Edward P. Shaughnessy can work to protect it.
SSDI lawyer Edward P. Shaughnessy can help SSDI recipients in Easton, PA and the surrounding areas. For a free consultation, please contact our office at (610) 258-9955 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.
