SSDI Benefits and Work Limitations

People collecting Social Security Disability (SSDI) sometimes question if they can collect disability AND work. The short answer is "yes," but certain rules apply. For starters there is a "Trial Work Period."

SSDI Trial Work Period
In the trial work period you are allowed to work up to 9 months within a fiver year period and continue to collect your SSDI benefits. After your 9 month trial period is up there is a limitation to the amount of money you can earn independent of SSDI and still maintain your SSDI benefits. In 2007 this limit was $900 / month and in 2006 the limit was $860 / month.

What happens if I exceed the earnings limit?
Earning more than the above limits come with consequences. If you exceed earning limitations you will be asked to repay your SSDI benefits back to Social Security for that month. The Social Security Administration will review your earnings on a monthly basis - excessive earning can jeopordize your Social Security disability benefits.

SSDI Benefits Impacted by a Pattern of Work
If the SSA notices there is a pattern and you are regularly showing a pattern of work, the SSA may decide to review your case entirely to determine if benefits should be continued.

Receiving Maximum SSDI Benefits
Are you receiving the maximum disability benefits allowed under SSDI? Are you looking to claim SSDI benefits? Whether you have applied for disability or applied and been denied disability a experienced SSDI lawyer can help. Those that qualify for SSDI benefits should know what type of work limitations are allowed.


Learn more about Social Security Disability Lawyers