How Much Can You Earn While On Social Security Disability?

Being disabled can be difficult in many ways. One of those ways is certainly the fact that a disability can limit you from working and earning an income as you normally would. If you are in this situation, you may wonder whether or not you should attempt to return to work if you feel that you are able. Certainly, some individuals have disabilities so severe that they can never return to work – but in some cases, disabled individuals can perform some types of work to bring in additional income.

While this is true, it’s understandable to worry. It’s normal to be concerned about whether returning to work might jeopardize your disability benefits. The good news is that the Social Security Administration does want to make it possible for disabled individuals to eventually transition back into the workforce—and it offers incentives that protect your right to ongoing benefits while you are in the process of attempting to do so.

A Quick Look at Earning Limits

First, it’s essential to understand that there are limits on how much an individual can earn while still receiving disability benefits from the Social Security Administration. This is probably the answer you expected – and after all, it only makes some amount of sense that an individual would not be able to work, earning unlimited amounts of income, while also receiving disability benefits.

The limit on earnings enforced by the Social Security Administration is known as the “substantial gainful activity” (or SGA) limit. Typically, the Social Security Administration adjusts this limit each year 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 blind individual.

Are There Any Exceptions?

Although the Social Security Administration does enforce the SGA limit, certain exceptions to its application are important to be aware of. The Social Security Administration offers certain “work incentives” intended to assist those receiving disability benefits with transitioning back to the workforce.

One of the most popular incentives administered by the Social Security Administration is the “Ticket to Work” program. Those who participate in the Ticket to Work program will have their SGA earning limits temporarily waived and will also receive assistance with things like:

1. Vocational rehabilitation
2. Training
3. Job search services
4. Various other types of employment support.

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

In addition to the Ticket to Work program, those who are receiving SSDI benefits may also choose to participate in a “trial work period.” Essentially, a trial work period is a total of nine cumulative months spread out over a period of no more than five years. During this time, a disabled individual can attempt to return to work while earning income that will not count against their disability benefits.

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

What About Income Earned from Other Sources?

Often, we are also asked about income that may be earned through sources other than work. Does that count toward the SGA limit? Will income—for example, an inheritance, profits from investments, the sale of real estate, or other “non-earned” income—reduce the amount of your Social Security disability benefits?

Generally, the answer is no—at least as far as Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits are concerned. However, those who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) may have their benefits reduced, as it is a need-based program with a threshold for total resources and assets.

Understandably, these issues may seem complicated – and they can be. If you find yourself with questions about income earned from other sources, transitioning back to full-time employment, or any other issue that might affect your disability benefits, you’ll need a knowledgeable and experienced legal team on your side. At Sackett Law, we’re here for you.

Sackett Law – Your Social Security Disability Attorneys

When you’re disabled and attempting to return to work, you deserve to focus on treating your condition, finding a suitable job, and beginning that new chapter as smoothly and successfully as possible. You don’t need legal worry and stress – you don’t need to wonder how you’ll protect your benefits while pursuing employment.

Instead, you can leave those matters to us. When you do, you can rest assured that your case is in good hands. Our knowledgeable and experienced team of attorneys knows and understands the law, 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.