How to Protect Your Disability Benefits While Exploring Employment Opportunities

For individuals receiving disability benefits in Philadelphia, exploring new employment opportunities can be both exciting and daunting. While employment may offer financial independence and personal fulfillment, it’s essential to approach this step cautiously to avoid jeopardizing your benefits. Understanding the rules set forth by the Social Security Administration (SSA) can help you strike a balance between earning an income and maintaining the support you rely on.

Understanding SSA’s Work Incentives

The SSA offers several programs to encourage beneficiaries to attempt work without immediately risking their disability benefits:

1. Trial Work Period (TWP)
   The TWP allows beneficiaries to test their ability to work for nine months while continuing to receive full benefits, regardless of how much they earn. The nine months do not have to be consecutive, and in 2025, earnings over $1,050 per month count as a trial work month.
2. Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE)
   After completing the TWP, the EPE provides an additional 36 months during which you can receive benefits for any month your earnings are below the substantial gainful activity (SGA) limit. For 2025, the SGA limit is $1,470 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,460 for blind individuals.
3. Ticket to Work Program
   This voluntary program offers free employment services, including career counseling, job placement assistance, and vocational rehabilitation, to help beneficiaries transition into the workforce. Participation does not affect your disability status or benefits.

Strategies for Protecting Your Benefits

To safeguard your disability benefits while exploring employment, consider the following strategies:

1. Track Your Earnings
   Keep meticulous records of your income to ensure you stay within SSA’s limits for maintaining benefits. Reporting your earnings accurately and promptly to the SSA is crucial to avoid overpayments or penalties.
2. Communicate with the SSA
   Notify the SSA immediately of any changes in your work status, income, or hours. Open communication helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures your records are up to date.
3. Understand Work Expenses
   Certain work-related expenses, like specialized equipment, transportation, or personal assistance, may be deductible. These deductions can reduce your countable income, making it easier to stay under the SGA limit.
4. Consult a Disability Attorney
   Navigating the complexities of SSA regulations can be challenging. A skilled Philadelphia disability attorney can help you understand your rights, maximize work incentives, and address any issues that arise.

What Happens If You Exceed Income Limits?

If your earnings exceed the SSA’s limits and you no longer qualify for benefits, the SSA provides a safety net called expedited reinstatement. This allows you to regain benefits without reapplying if you stop working due to your disability within five years.

Exploring employment opportunities while receiving disability benefits is possible with the right approach and resources. By understanding SSA’s work incentives and working with a knowledgeable disability attorney, you can confidently take steps toward employment without compromising your financial security.

Contact Edelstein Martin & Nelson Today

Are you considering returning to work while receiving disability benefits? Protect your financial future with the help of our experienced Philadelphia disability attorney at Edelstein Martin & Nelson. Contact us today for a free consultation and learn how to navigate SSA regulations with confidence.

Call us at (800) 300-0909 or (215) 731-9900 to start working on your case right away.