Guidelines for working while receiving SSDI

Getting disability benefits? We can help you get to work!

If you are getting disability benefits, we have good news for you. Social Security’s work incentives and Ticket to Work programs can help you if you are interested in working.

Special rules make it possible for people receiving Social Security disability benefits or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) to work and still receive monthly payments.

And, if you cannot continue working because of your medical condition, your benefits can start again—you may not have to file a new application.

Work incentives include:

• Continued cash benefits for a time while you work;
• Continued Medicare or Medicaid while you work; and
• Help with education, training and rehabilitation to start
  a new line of work.

The rules are different under Social Security and SSI. We describe the rules under each program in different sections of this booklet.

But, whether you are receiving Social Security or SSI, it is important to let us know promptly when you start or stop working, or if any other change occurs that could affect your benefits.

The Ticket to Work program may also help you if you would like to work. You can receive vocational rehabilitation, training, job referrals and other employment support services free of charge. You will not undergo medical reviews while you are using the ticket and making timely progress pursuing your return to work plan.

You can get more information on the Ticket to Work program by calling 1-866-968-7842 toll-free (TTY 1-866-833-2967). Or you can call our toll-free number and ask for Your Ticket To Work (Publication No. 05-10061).

You also can visit the Ticket to Work website at www.socialsecurity.gov/work for more information.

* this is useful information provided by the Social Security Administration (SSA)