There are many people currently receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) from the Social Security Administration. A high percentage of these people receiving benefits are able to work jobs with a limited number of hours or jobs that require a limited degree of skill to perform. But how does working affect payments received from Social Security? People who work and continue to receive benefits fall under what the Social Security Administration calls Work Incentive Programs. These programs serve to minimize income received counting against monthly payment amounts. There are many work incentive programs available to encourage people receiving benefits to work. Here are some of them:
Impairment Related Work Expenses – This program takes into account any expenses you incur in order to be able to work. Examples include wheelchairs or other equipment required to work, costs of transportation to and from work, or any specialized equipment that is necessary for you to perform your job. These costs are deducted from your earnings when considering monthly payment amounts.
Unsuccessful Work Attempt – This program refers to a person’s attempt to work for less than six months. If the work is stopped due to the disabling condition or a change in circumstances that the person required to go to work, monthly payments will not be affected.
Trial Work Period – This program allows a person to test their ability to work for a nine month period. During the trial period, full benefit amounts will continue to be paid, regardless of the amount of income. All work must be reported, and the disabling impairment must still be present to participate in this program.
Continuation of Medicare Coverage – People with disabilities who work will receive a minimum of 93 months of Medicare coverage once the nine-month trial work period is over. This coverage includes Hospital (Part A), Supplemental Medical Insurance (Part B), and Prescription Drug Coverage (Part D). This guarantees people who attempt to work continued health coverage.
These are just a few of the Work Incentive Programs available from Social Security. There are around twenty different Work Incentive Programs listed on the Social Security Administration website. All of the programs apply to SSI and SSDI payments differently. To maximize your continued benefit amount while you attempt to work, the services of a legal professional can be invaluable. Professionals who deal with disability laws and regulations on a daily basis can help you navigate this very complex system and act with your interests in mind.
