Do you have a Social Security Question?

You’re right to be cautious, but there are programs in place to help people on SSDI re-enter the workforce with some safety nets. Here’s what you can look into:

Ticket to Work Program: This free program from the Social Security Administration (SSA) connects you with employment resources and allows you to test your ability to work without jeopardizing your benefits. It includes:
Trial Work Periods: During these 9-month periods, your benefits continue even if your earnings exceed the “substantial gainful activity” (SGA) limit, which is currently $1260/month (gross income). You can have multiple trial work periods within a 5-year timeframe.
Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE): For 36 months after your trial work period(s), your benefits continue if your earnings fall below the SGA limit.
This program can give you valuable experience and income while mitigating risk. You can find more info and enroll here: SSA Ticket to Work Program

Social Security Administration (SSA): The SSA website has a wealth of information on working while on SSDI, including the “Red Book” which details the rules and work incentives: https://www.ssa.gov/redbook/
Restarting SSDI Benefits:

If your attempt to return to work doesn’t go as planned, and your disability prevents you from working again, you may be able to restart your SSDI benefits under a process called Expedited Reinstatement. This allows you to resume benefits without a new application process, as long as your condition hasn’t improved and you meet certain criteria. More details can be found on the SSA website: https://www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10095.pdf

Benefit Amount:

The amount of your SSDI benefits is based on your earnings history before your disability. If you return to work and your earnings increase your total Social Security contributions, your benefit amount may increase upon returning to SSDI (if eligible).

Additional Resources:

Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund: This organization offers legal aid and advocacy for people with disabilities, including those on SSDI: https://dredf.org/
Remember, talking to the SSA directly is the best way to get personalized information about your situation and how these programs might affect your benefits. They have a dedicated phone number for people receiving disability benefits: 1-800-772-1213.

Taking this leap can be scary, but with research, planning, and the support available, you can increase your chances of a successful return to the workforce.