How Much Money Can You Make On Social Security Disability?

If you are disabled and you receive Social Security benefits, those benefits are probably an important source of financial security and stability while you’re unable to work. After all, being unable to work and earn an income as you usually would can be difficult, to say the least.

In some cases, having a disability means you will be unable to work indefinitely – perhaps permanently. In other cases, however, you may be fortunate enough to return to some type of work, either full-time or part-time, or earn income in some way. While earning extra income is usually a positive thing, it’s understandable to wonder if doing so will affect your eligibility to continue receiving Social Security benefits.

The good news is that it is possible to earn some sort of income and still also receive Social Security disability benefits. In fact, the Social Security Administration offers certain incentives for people who want to try to return to work and attempts to make it possible for people to do so while still maintaining financial stability throughout the process.

A Look at The Limits

First, it is important to understand that there are limits on how much an individual can earn and still receive disability benefits from the Social Security Administration. This is known as the “substantial gainful activity” (SGA) limit. The Social Security Administration may adjust this limit annually to account for changes in the cost of living. In 2024, the SGA is $1550 for a disabled individual who is not blind and $2590 for a person with blindness.

If you are disabled and earn or receive income in excess of these limits, as a general rule, you can no longer collect disability benefits simultaneously. However, the good news is that there are temporary exceptions to this rule and incentives for those who are initially attempting to return to work.

What Incentives are Offered to Return to Work?

One of the most popular incentives the Social Security Administration offers for those attempting to return to work is the “Ticket to Work” program. This program offers those attempting to return to work the opportunity to temporarily waive the SGA earning limits, as well as receive assistance with things like:

• Job-related training
• Vocational rehabilitation
• Job search services
• A variety of other types of employment support.

To learn more about Ticket to Work, visit www.choosework.ssa.gov or call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842. Representatives can be reached Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. ET.

In addition to the Ticket to Work program, the Social Security Administration allows those attempting to return to work to have a “trial work period.” The goal of the trial work period is to allow for a period of time in which benefits will continue while an individual attempts to adjust to returning to work.

The trial work period is typically nine months allotted over a period of no more than five years. At the conclusion of the trial work period, one can transition to full-time work if they are able. In other cases, those who cannot continue working may pursue continuing disability benefits.

After the trial work period is over, an individual may, if able, transition to full-time work. In other cases, if the individual is unable to work, they may pursue the continued receipt of disability benefits from the Social Security Administration.

What About Income Earned From Other Sources?

We are also often asked about income that may be earned from sources other than work. Does other income—for example, an inheritance, profits from investments, the sale of property, or other “non-earned” income—reduce or eliminate the Social Security disability benefits you receive each month?

The good news is that the answer is generally no insofar as SSDI benefits are concerned. However, those who receive SSI benefits may have their benefits reduced as a result of non-earned income, as SSI is an income and need-based program with a threshold for total resources.

Understandably, the law can seem complex, and the different rules and programs that apply to returning to work can be confusing. That’s understandable. And it’s why you need a legal team on your side that knows and understands the law and can guide you through the process as you pursue the benefits you need and deserve. At Keener Law, we’re here to help.

Call Keener Law Today

At Keener Law, we understand the law regarding disability benefits. No matter where you find yourself in the process – whether filing an initial claim, appealing a denial, returning to work, or any other issue, we’re here to help. We know and understand the best legal strategies to pursue on your behalf, and we’ll always fight to protect your rights. If you’re ready to get started, give us a call today. We look forward to speaking with you soon.