Ask Rusty: Can Someone Work While Collecting Social Security Disability?

Question: If a person is collecting Social Security disability benefits, can they work at all, and what is the maximum they can earn while keeping the disability benefit? My husband is young but unable to return to his previous job due to injuries.

Answer: The Social Security Administration encourages those collecting Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits to try to return to work. In 2024, the monthly earnings limit for those collecting SSDI benefits is $1,550. As long as your husband earns less than this limit, his SSDI benefits will not be compromised.

Your husband should contact Social Security’s Ticket to Work program. They assist those receiving SSDI benefits who wish to rejoin the workforce without putting their SSDI benefits at risk. The program offers new career training opportunities and connections to potential employers. It is voluntary and free. You can find more about the program here: https://choosework.ssa.gov/

In addition, your husband can request a Trial Work Period (TWP). During this period of 9 months over a five-year span, he can earn anything without risking his SSDI benefits.

If your husband earns more than the SSDI limit for more than the 9 trial work months, and his benefits are stopped, they can be reinstated without reapplying if he is unable to work full time due to his disability. Your husband should contact the Ticket to Work program at 1.833-889-0108 to discuss the possibilities.