Returning to Work After Receiving Government Disability Benefits (SSI and SSDI).
What are Government Disability Benefits?
The United States Social Security Administration manages two types of disability benefits offered by the Federal Government: Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance Program (SSDI). The SSI program provides cash payments to individuals who are elderly, blind or disabled and who have limited income and resources. In short anyone who needs assistance because of a disability can receive SSI. Contrastly, SSDI provides benefits to blind or disabled individuals who contributed to the Social Security trust fund. People contribute to the Social Security trust fund when they pay FICA taxes.
What is considered a “Disability” ?
The SSA defines a disability as any medically determinable physical or mental impairment that is expected to result in death or that either has lasted or is expected to last longer than 12 months. The impairment must prohibit the individual from engaging in substantial gainful employment (SGA).
What is Substantial Gainful Employment (SGA)?
In short, SGA is any work that results in a disabled indiviual earning more than a minimum amount established by the SSA. For 2013, the aount is $1,040 a month for disabled individuals and $1,740 a month for blind individuals.
Can Individuals Receive Both SSI and SSDI?
Yes. Individuals may qualify for both SSI and SSDI benefits at the same time. the SSA calls these “concurrent benefits.”
Can Individuals Work if They Receive SSI or SSDI?
Yes.
