What Is The Income Limit For Disability Benefits?

The income limit for disability benefits is a crucial factor for individuals seeking financial assistance due to a disability, and at income-partners.net, we are committed to providing clarity and guidance on this complex topic. Understanding the specific income thresholds and eligibility requirements is essential for navigating the application process and securing the support you need. Discover valuable insights and resources to help you maximize your income potential while maintaining eligibility for disability benefits. Increase your earning potential through smart strategies with information provided by income-partners.net, explore strategic partnership opportunities and access valuable income resources.

1. What Are Disability Benefits and Who Is Eligible?

Disability benefits provide financial assistance to individuals who are unable to work due to a physical or mental impairment. To be eligible, you must meet specific medical and non-medical requirements.

Disability benefits serve as a crucial safety net for those who can no longer support themselves through employment. These benefits are generally provided through government programs like Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

1.1 Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

SSDI is for workers who have paid Social Security taxes and have a qualifying work history. The Social Security Administration (SSA) assesses your medical condition and work history to determine eligibility. To qualify for SSDI, you generally need to have accumulated enough work credits and have a medical condition that prevents you from engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA).

1.2 Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

SSI is a needs-based program for individuals with limited income and resources, regardless of their work history. SSI provides monthly payments to those who are aged, blind, or disabled. This program is particularly beneficial for those who have not worked enough to qualify for SSDI.

1.3 Eligibility Criteria for Disability Benefits

To be eligible for disability benefits, you generally need to meet the following criteria:

Medical Condition: You must have a medically determinable physical or mental impairment that prevents you from doing substantial gainful activity (SGA).
Duration of Impairment: The impairment must have lasted or be expected to last for at least 12 months, or be expected to result in death.
Work History (SSDI): For SSDI, you must have accumulated enough work credits based on your earnings history.
Income and Resources (SSI): For SSI, your income and resources must fall below specific limits set by the SSA.

2. How Is Income Defined for Disability Benefits?

Income is defined differently for SSDI and SSI, with specific rules about what counts as income and how it affects eligibility.

Understanding how income is defined is critical, as it directly impacts your eligibility and the amount of benefits you can receive. The Social Security Administration (SSA) carefully evaluates various sources of income to determine if you meet the requirements for disability benefits.

2.1 Income Definition for SSDI

For SSDI, earned income generally does not affect your eligibility once you are approved for benefits. However, engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA) before approval can prevent you from qualifying. In 2024, the SGA threshold is $1,550 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,590 for blind individuals.

2.2 Income Definition for SSI

For SSI, both earned and unearned income are considered. The SSA uses a complex formula to determine your countable income, which affects your benefit amount.

Earned Income: This includes wages, self-employment income, and earnings from work activities.
Unearned Income: This includes Social Security benefits, pensions, unemployment benefits, and other forms of assistance.

2.3 Exclusions and Deductions

The SSA excludes some types of income and allows certain deductions, which can lower your countable income for SSI purposes. Common exclusions and deductions include:

General Income Exclusion: The first $20 of most income received in a month is not counted.
Earned Income Exclusion: The first $65 of earned income in a month is not counted, and only half of the remaining earned income is counted.
Food and Shelter: If someone else pays for your food and shelter, it may reduce your SSI payment, but there are limits to how much it can be reduced.
Impairment-Related Work Expenses (IRWE): Certain expenses related to your disability that allow you to work can be deducted from your income.

3. What Are the Specific Income Limits for SSDI?

Understanding the substantial gainful activity (SGA) threshold and how it affects SSDI eligibility is crucial.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) sets specific income limits to determine whether an individual is eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). These limits primarily revolve around the concept of substantial gainful activity (SGA).

3.1 Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) Explained

Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) is a key factor in determining SSDI eligibility. SGA refers to the ability to perform significant physical or mental activities for pay or profit. The SSA sets a monthly income threshold; if your earnings exceed this amount, you are generally considered to be engaging in SGA and are not eligible for SSDI.

3.2 2024 SGA Thresholds

In 2024, the SGA threshold is $1,550 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,590 per month for blind individuals. These amounts are adjusted annually to reflect changes in the national average wage index.

3.3 Trial Work Period (TWP)

The Trial Work Period (TWP) allows SSDI recipients to test their ability to work without immediately losing their benefits. During the TWP, you can earn any amount of money and still receive full SSDI benefits, provided you report your work activity to the SSA.

TWP Duration: The TWP lasts for nine months within a rolling 60-month period.
TWP Earnings Threshold: In 2024, a month counts as a TWP month if your earnings exceed $1,110.

3.4 Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE)

After the TWP, the Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE) begins. This is a 36-month period during which you can continue to receive SSDI benefits for any month your earnings fall below the SGA level. If your earnings exceed the SGA level during the EPE, your benefits will be suspended.

3.5 Unsuccessful Work Attempt (UWA)

If you attempt to return to work but are unable to continue due to your medical condition, the SSA may consider it an Unsuccessful Work Attempt (UWA). In such cases, your earnings during the UWA may not affect your SSDI eligibility.

UWA Criteria: To qualify as a UWA, the work attempt must end within six months due to your impairment.

3.6 How Earnings Are Evaluated

The SSA evaluates your earnings by looking at your gross monthly income. This includes wages, self-employment income, and any other form of compensation for work performed. The SSA also considers factors such as the nature of your work, the amount of time you spend working, and whether you receive subsidies or special accommodations.

4. What Are the Specific Income Limits for SSI?

SSI has strict income limits, but certain deductions and exclusions can help individuals qualify.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) provides financial assistance to individuals with limited income and resources who are aged, blind, or disabled. The Social Security Administration (SSA) has specific income limits that determine eligibility for SSI benefits.

4.1 Countable Income for SSI

Countable income is the amount of income that the SSA uses to determine your SSI benefit amount. It includes both earned and unearned income, but certain exclusions and deductions can reduce the amount of income that is counted.

4.2 2024 Federal Benefit Rate (FBR)

The Federal Benefit Rate (FBR) is the maximum SSI payment that an individual can receive. In 2024, the FBR is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 per month for a couple. Your SSI payment is reduced by the amount of your countable income.

4.3 Earned Income Limits and Exclusions

Earned income includes wages, self-employment income, and earnings from work activities. The SSA excludes a portion of your earned income when determining your SSI benefit amount.

General Income Exclusion: The first $20 of most income received in a month is not counted.
Earned Income Exclusion: The first $65 of earned income in a month is not counted, and only half of the remaining earned income is counted.

4.4 Unearned Income Limits and Exclusions

Unearned income includes Social Security benefits, pensions, unemployment benefits, and other forms of assistance. The SSA also excludes some types of unearned income.

General Income Exclusion: As with earned income, the first $20 of most unearned income received in a month is not counted.
In-Kind Support and Maintenance (ISM): If someone else pays for your food and shelter, it may reduce your SSI payment, but there are limits to how much it can be reduced. The SSA uses a formula to determine the value of the ISM, which is then counted as unearned income.

4.5 Examples of How Income Affects SSI Benefits

To illustrate how income affects SSI benefits, consider the following examples:

Example 1: An individual receives $100 in unearned income. After applying the general income exclusion of $20, the countable income is $80. The SSI benefit is reduced by $80, resulting in a monthly payment of $863 ($943 – $80).
Example 2: An individual earns $200 in wages. After applying the general income exclusion of $20 and the earned income exclusion of $65, the remaining income is $115. Half of this amount ($57.50) is counted as income. The SSI benefit is reduced by $57.50, resulting in a monthly payment of $885.50 ($943 – $57.50).

4.6 Strategies to Stay Within Income Limits

Several strategies can help individuals stay within the income limits for SSI:

Manage Earned Income: Be aware of the earned income exclusions and how they affect your SSI benefit. Consider part-time work or self-employment opportunities that allow you to earn income without exceeding the limits.
Utilize IRWEs: If you have impairment-related work expenses, be sure to report them to the SSA. These expenses can be deducted from your income, reducing your countable income and increasing your SSI benefit.
Plan for In-Kind Support and Maintenance: If someone else is paying for your food and shelter, understand how this affects your SSI benefit. Explore options such as renting a room or paying for a portion of your expenses to reduce the value of the ISM.

5. How Does the Ticket to Work Program Affect Income Limits?

The Ticket to Work program provides opportunities for disability beneficiaries to explore employment without immediately losing benefits.

The Ticket to Work program is designed to help Social Security disability beneficiaries return to work or increase their earnings without immediately losing their benefits. This program can significantly affect how income limits are applied and managed.

5.1 Overview of the Ticket to Work Program

The Ticket to Work program is a voluntary program for Social Security disability beneficiaries who are interested in returning to work. The program provides access to a range of services and supports, including vocational rehabilitation, job training, and job placement assistance.

Eligibility: Individuals receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits based on disability are generally eligible for the Ticket to Work program.
Program Goals: The primary goal of the program is to help beneficiaries achieve financial independence through employment.

5.2 Key Benefits of the Ticket to Work Program

The Ticket to Work program offers several key benefits:

Protection from Medical Continuing Disability Reviews (CDR): As long as you are making timely progress in the program, you are generally protected from medical CDRs.
Access to Support Services: The program provides access to a range of services and supports to help you prepare for, find, and maintain employment.
Flexibility to Explore Work: The program allows you to explore work opportunities without immediately losing your benefits.

5.3 How Ticket to Work Affects SSDI Income Limits

For SSDI beneficiaries, the Ticket to Work program can help manage income limits by providing a pathway to gradually increase earnings without immediately losing benefits. The program allows participants to utilize the Trial Work Period (TWP) and Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE) to test their ability to work.

Trial Work Period (TWP): During the TWP, you can earn any amount of money and still receive full SSDI benefits, provided you report your work activity to the SSA.
Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE): After the TWP, the EPE allows you to continue to receive SSDI benefits for any month your earnings fall below the SGA level.

5.4 How Ticket to Work Affects SSI Income Limits

For SSI beneficiaries, the Ticket to Work program can help manage income limits by providing access to services and supports that can lead to increased earnings. The program also allows participants to utilize the earned income exclusions to reduce their countable income.

Earned Income Exclusion: The first $65 of earned income in a month is not counted, and only half of the remaining earned income is counted. This exclusion can significantly reduce your countable income and increase your SSI benefit.
Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS): The Ticket to Work program also allows SSI beneficiaries to develop a Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS). A PASS is a written plan that outlines how you will use your income and resources to achieve a specific work goal. If your PASS is approved, the income and resources you use to achieve your work goal are not counted when determining your SSI eligibility or benefit amount.

5.5 Examples of Ticket to Work Success Stories

Many individuals have successfully used the Ticket to Work program to return to work and achieve financial independence. For example, a person with a disability may use the program to receive vocational training, find a job, and gradually increase their earnings until they are able to support themselves without SSI or SSDI benefits.

6. What Are Impairment-Related Work Expenses (IRWEs) and How Do They Help?

IRWEs allow certain disability-related expenses to be deducted from income, potentially increasing benefit eligibility.

Impairment-Related Work Expenses (IRWEs) are specific costs that individuals with disabilities incur to enable them to work. These expenses can be deducted from gross earnings when determining eligibility for Social Security benefits, potentially increasing the amount of benefits received.

6.1 Definition of Impairment-Related Work Expenses (IRWEs)

Impairment-Related Work Expenses (IRWEs) are costs that are directly related to a person’s disability and are necessary for them to work. These expenses must be reasonable and must not be reimbursed by any other source, such as insurance or an employer.

6.2 Types of Expenses That Can Be Considered IRWEs

Several types of expenses can be considered IRWEs, including:

Medical Expenses: Costs for medical treatment, therapy, and rehabilitation that are necessary for you to work.
Assistive Devices: Expenses for devices that help you perform your job, such as wheelchairs, hearing aids, and communication devices.
Attendant Care Services: Costs for personal care attendants who assist you with tasks that you are unable to perform due to your disability.
Transportation Costs: Expenses for transportation to and from work, including special transportation services and modifications to your vehicle.
Work-Related Equipment: Costs for equipment that is specifically required for your job, such as specialized computer software or ergonomic equipment.

6.3 How IRWEs Are Calculated

The Social Security Administration (SSA) calculates IRWEs by subtracting the total amount of your unreimbursed impairment-related work expenses from your gross earnings. The resulting amount is used to determine your eligibility for Social Security benefits.

6.4 Examples of How IRWEs Can Increase Benefit Eligibility

To illustrate how IRWEs can increase benefit eligibility, consider the following examples:

Example 1: An individual earns $1,800 per month and has IRWEs of $300 per month. After subtracting the IRWEs from their gross earnings, their countable income is $1,500. This may allow them to remain eligible for Social Security benefits, even though their gross earnings exceed the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) level.
Example 2: An individual receives Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and has IRWEs of $100 per month. After subtracting the IRWEs from their gross earnings, their countable income is reduced, resulting in a higher SSI payment.

6.5 Documentation and Reporting Requirements

To claim IRWEs, you must provide documentation to the SSA that verifies your expenses. This documentation may include receipts, invoices, and medical records. You must also report your IRWEs to the SSA on a monthly basis.

6.6 Resources for Learning More About IRWEs

Several resources can help you learn more about IRWEs:

Social Security Administration (SSA): The SSA website provides information about IRWEs and how to claim them.
Disability Organizations: Many disability organizations offer assistance with understanding and claiming IRWEs.
Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors: Vocational rehabilitation counselors can help you identify and document your IRWEs.

7. What Is the Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS) and How Can It Help?

A PASS allows SSI recipients to set aside income for specific work-related goals, without it affecting their eligibility.

The Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS) is a program offered by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to help Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients achieve financial independence through work. A PASS allows individuals to set aside income and resources for a specific work-related goal, without it affecting their eligibility for SSI.

7.1 Overview of the Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS)

The Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS) is a written plan that outlines how you will use your income and resources to achieve a specific work goal. The plan must be approved by the SSA, and it must be designed to help you become self-supporting.

7.2 Eligibility Requirements for a PASS

To be eligible for a PASS, you must meet the following requirements:

You must be receiving SSI or be eligible to receive SSI.
You must have a specific work goal, such as starting a business, obtaining a degree, or learning a new skill.
You must have a feasible plan for achieving your work goal.
You must be able to manage your PASS funds responsibly.

7.3 How a PASS Can Help You Increase Your Income

A PASS can help you increase your income by allowing you to set aside income and resources for work-related expenses. The income and resources you set aside are not counted when determining your SSI eligibility or benefit amount.

7.4 Examples of Work-Related Goals That Can Be Included in a PASS

Several work-related goals can be included in a PASS, such as:

Starting a Business: A PASS can be used to pay for business expenses, such as equipment, supplies, and marketing.
Obtaining a Degree: A PASS can be used to pay for tuition, books, and other educational expenses.
Learning a New Skill: A PASS can be used to pay for vocational training, workshops, and other skill-building activities.

7.5 How to Develop a PASS

To develop a PASS, you must work with a qualified professional, such as a vocational rehabilitation counselor or a benefits planner. The professional will help you develop a written plan that meets the requirements of the SSA.

7.6 Resources for Developing a PASS

Several resources can help you develop a PASS:

Social Security Administration (SSA): The SSA website provides information about PASS and how to develop one.
Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors: Vocational rehabilitation counselors can help you develop a PASS and provide ongoing support.
Benefits Planners: Benefits planners can help you understand how a PASS can affect your Social Security benefits.

8. What Happens If My Income Exceeds the Limit?

Exceeding the income limit can affect disability benefits, but there are ways to manage and potentially reinstate benefits.

If your income exceeds the limit for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), it can affect your eligibility for benefits. Understanding what happens when you exceed the income limit and how to manage the situation is crucial.

8.1 SSDI and Exceeding the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) Limit

For SSDI, exceeding the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit can result in the suspension or termination of your benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) considers the SGA limit to be an indicator of your ability to work.

Initial Determination: If your earnings exceed the SGA limit when you initially apply for SSDI, your application may be denied.
Post-Approval Review: If your earnings exceed the SGA limit after you have been approved for SSDI, the SSA may conduct a review to determine if you are still eligible for benefits.

8.2 SSI and Exceeding the Income Limit

For SSI, exceeding the income limit can result in a reduction or termination of your benefits. The SSA uses a complex formula to determine your countable income, which affects your SSI benefit amount.

Income Calculation: The SSA considers both earned and unearned income when determining your SSI benefit. Certain exclusions and deductions can reduce the amount of income that is counted.
Benefit Reduction: If your countable income exceeds the SSI income limit, your benefit will be reduced. If your countable income exceeds the Federal Benefit Rate (FBR), your benefits will be terminated.

8.3 Options for Managing Income and Benefits

If your income exceeds the limit for SSDI or SSI, there are several options for managing your income and benefits:

Reduce Your Work Hours: If possible, reduce your work hours to keep your earnings below the SGA limit for SSDI or the income limit for SSI.
Utilize Impairment-Related Work Expenses (IRWEs): If you have impairment-related work expenses, be sure to report them to the SSA. These expenses can be deducted from your income, reducing your countable income and increasing your SSI benefit.
Develop a Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS): If you are receiving SSI, consider developing a PASS. A PASS can allow you to set aside income and resources for work-related expenses, without it affecting your eligibility for SSI.
Utilize the Ticket to Work Program: The Ticket to Work program can help you manage your income and benefits by providing access to services and supports that can lead to increased earnings.

8.4 Reinstatement of Benefits

If your SSDI or SSI benefits are terminated due to excess income, you may be able to reinstate your benefits if your income later falls below the limit.

Expedited Reinstatement (EXR): If your SSDI benefits are terminated due to excess earnings, you may be eligible for Expedited Reinstatement (EXR). EXR allows you to receive temporary benefits while the SSA reviews your case.
Reapplication: If your SSDI or SSI benefits are terminated, you can reapply for benefits if your income later falls below the limit.

8.5 Seeking Professional Advice

Navigating the complex rules and regulations surrounding SSDI and SSI can be challenging. Seeking professional advice from a qualified benefits planner or attorney can help you understand your options and make informed decisions about your income and benefits.

9. What Resources Are Available to Help Me Understand Income Limits?

Several resources provide information and assistance to help individuals understand income limits for disability benefits.

Understanding the income limits for disability benefits can be complex, but numerous resources are available to help you navigate the process. These resources can provide information, guidance, and support to help you understand your eligibility and manage your benefits.

9.1 Social Security Administration (SSA)

The Social Security Administration (SSA) is the primary source of information about Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). The SSA website provides detailed information about eligibility requirements, income limits, and other important topics.

SSA Website: The SSA website (www.ssa.gov) offers a wealth of information about disability benefits, including publications, fact sheets, and online tools.
SSA Publications: The SSA publishes numerous booklets and pamphlets about disability benefits, which are available online or at your local Social Security office.
SSA Representatives: You can contact the SSA by phone or in person to speak with a representative who can answer your questions about disability benefits.

9.2 State Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Agencies

State Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) agencies provide services and supports to individuals with disabilities who are seeking employment. VR agencies can help you understand how income limits affect your disability benefits and develop strategies to manage your income.

VR Services: VR agencies offer a range of services, including vocational assessment, job training, job placement assistance, and counseling.
VR Counselors: VR counselors can help you develop a plan to return to work or increase your earnings while maintaining your eligibility for disability benefits.

9.3 Disability Organizations

Numerous disability organizations provide information and assistance to individuals with disabilities. These organizations can help you understand your rights and benefits and provide advocacy and support.

National Disability Rights Network (NDRN): The NDRN is a network of protection and advocacy agencies that provide legal representation and advocacy services to individuals with disabilities.
Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund (DREDF): DREDF is a national law and policy center that works to advance the rights of people with disabilities through legal advocacy, training, and public policy initiatives.

9.4 Benefits Planners

Benefits planners are professionals who specialize in helping individuals with disabilities understand and manage their Social Security benefits. Benefits planners can provide personalized advice and guidance on how to maximize your income while maintaining your eligibility for disability benefits.

Services Offered: Benefits planners can help you understand the rules and regulations surrounding SSDI and SSI, develop a plan to return to work or increase your earnings, and navigate the complex application process.
Finding a Benefits Planner: You can find a benefits planner through the SSA’s Ticket to Work program or through disability organizations and advocacy groups.

9.5 Online Resources and Tools

Several online resources and tools can help you understand income limits and manage your disability benefits.

Social Security Benefit Calculators: The SSA website offers several benefit calculators that can help you estimate your SSDI or SSI benefit amount.
Disability Benefits 101 (DB101): DB101 is a website that provides comprehensive information about disability benefits in each state.
Online Forums and Communities: Several online forums and communities provide a space for individuals with disabilities to share information and support each other.

10. How Can Income-Partners.net Help Me Navigate Disability Income Limits?

Income-partners.net offers valuable insights and resources to help you navigate disability income limits and maximize your earning potential while maintaining eligibility for benefits.

At Income-Partners.net, we understand the complexities and challenges individuals face when navigating disability income limits. Our mission is to provide valuable insights, resources, and strategies to help you maximize your earning potential while maintaining eligibility for essential disability benefits.

10.1 Expert Guidance and Resources

Income-Partners.net offers a wealth of expert guidance and resources to help you understand the intricacies of disability income limits. Our team of experienced professionals provides clear, concise, and up-to-date information on the eligibility requirements, income thresholds, and strategies for managing your benefits.

Informative Articles: Our website features a library of informative articles that cover a wide range of topics related to disability income limits, including SSDI, SSI, Ticket to Work, IRWEs, and PASS.
Expert Insights: We provide expert insights and analysis on the latest developments in disability benefits, helping you stay informed and make informed decisions about your income and benefits.

10.2 Strategic Partnership Opportunities

Income-Partners.net is dedicated to connecting individuals with strategic partnership opportunities that can help them increase their income while maintaining eligibility for disability benefits. We work with a network of businesses, organizations, and professionals to identify and promote opportunities that are tailored to the needs of individuals with disabilities.

Job Opportunities: We feature job opportunities from employers who are committed to hiring individuals with disabilities.
Business Ventures: We provide resources and support for individuals who are interested in starting their own businesses, including information on funding, training, and mentorship programs.

10.3 Personalized Support and Assistance

Income-Partners.net offers personalized support and assistance to help you navigate the complex rules and regulations surrounding disability income limits. Our team of experts is available to answer your questions, provide guidance, and connect you with the resources you need to succeed.

One-on-One Consultations: We offer one-on-one consultations to help you assess your individual situation, develop a plan for managing your income, and navigate the application process for disability benefits.
Community Forum: Our online community forum provides a space for individuals with disabilities to connect with each other, share information, and provide support.

10.4 Success Stories and Testimonials

Income-Partners.net showcases success stories and testimonials from individuals who have successfully navigated disability income limits and achieved financial independence. These stories provide inspiration and motivation, demonstrating that it is possible to increase your income while maintaining eligibility for disability benefits.

Real-Life Examples: We feature real-life examples of individuals who have used the Ticket to Work program, IRWEs, and PASS to increase their earnings and improve their financial situation.
Expert Interviews: We conduct interviews with experts in the field of disability benefits, providing valuable insights and advice on how to navigate the complex rules and regulations.

10.5 Resources for Further Learning

Income-Partners.net provides a comprehensive list of resources for further learning about disability income limits. These resources include links to government agencies, disability organizations, and other helpful websites.

Government Agencies: We provide links to the Social Security Administration (SSA) and other government agencies that provide information and assistance to individuals with disabilities.
Disability Organizations: We feature a directory of disability organizations that offer a wide range of services and supports.

By leveraging the expertise, resources, and opportunities available at Income-Partners.net, you can navigate disability income limits with confidence and achieve your financial goals.

Take Action Today:

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FAQ: Understanding Income Limits for Disability Benefits

1. What is Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)?

Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) refers to the ability to perform significant physical or mental activities for pay or profit. In 2024, the SGA threshold is $1,550 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,590 for blind individuals.

2. How does the Trial Work Period (TWP) affect my SSDI benefits?

During the Trial Work Period (TWP), you can earn any amount of money and still receive full SSDI benefits for nine months within a rolling 60-month period. In 2024, a month counts as a TWP month if your earnings exceed $1,110.

3. What is the Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE)?

The Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE) is a 36-month period after the TWP during which you can continue to receive SSDI benefits for any month your earnings fall below the SGA level.

4. What is the Federal Benefit Rate (FBR) for SSI in 2024?

The Federal Benefit Rate (FBR) is the maximum SSI payment that an individual can receive. In 2024, the FBR is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 per month for a couple.

5. What is the general income exclusion for SSI?

The first $20 of most income received in a month is not counted when determining SSI eligibility and benefit amount.

6. How does the earned income exclusion affect my SSI benefits?

The first $65 of earned income in a month is not counted, and only half of the remaining earned income is counted when determining SSI eligibility and benefit amount.

7. What are Impairment-Related Work Expenses (IRWEs)?

Impairment-Related Work Expenses (IRWEs) are costs that are directly related to a person’s disability and are necessary for them to work. These expenses can be deducted from gross earnings when determining eligibility for Social Security benefits.

8. What is the Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS)?

The Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS) is a written plan that outlines how you will use your income and resources to achieve a specific work goal, without it affecting your eligibility for SSI.

9. What happens if my income exceeds the limit for SSDI or SSI?

Exceeding the income limit can result in the suspension or termination of your benefits. However, there are options for managing your income and potentially reinstating your benefits.

10. Where can I find more information about disability income limits?

You can find more information about disability income limits from the Social Security Administration (SSA), state Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) agencies, disability organizations, benefits planners, and online resources such as Disability Benefits 101 (DB101) and income-partners.net.