How Does Part-Time Work Affect My Social Security Disability Benefits in Arizona?
In Arizona, working part-time can indeed impact your Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) determines eligibility for SSD benefits based on your ability to engage in substantial gainful activity (SGA). SGA refers to the level of work that a person is capable of performing, which can earn them a certain amount of income. If you’re working part-time and earning more than the SGA limit, you may not qualify for SSD benefits.
However, the SSA does not only consider the amount you earn. They also look at the nature of your work and your physical or mental ability to perform it. For instance, if you’re working part-time due to your disability, but your earnings are below the SGA limit, you may still qualify for benefits.
What is the Substantial Gainful Activity Limit?
The SGA limit is a key factor in determining your eligibility for SSD benefits. In 2021, the SGA limit for non-blind individuals is $1,310 per month. For blind individuals, it’s $2,190 per month. If your part-time work earnings exceed these limits, you may not be eligible for SSD benefits. It’s also important to note that the SSA does not count income from sources other than work, such as investments or gifts, towards the SGA limit.
Can I Still Receive Benefits if My Earnings are Below the SGA Limit?
Yes, you can still receive SSD benefits if your earnings from part-time work are below the SGA limit. However, the SSA may adjust your benefits based on your work activity. This is because the SSA assumes that if you’re able to work part-time, you may be able to work full-time with the right support and accommodations.
The SSA uses a process called a work trial period to determine if you’re capable of SGA. During this nine-month period, you can continue to receive full SSD benefits regardless of how much you earn, as long as your disability still meets the SSA’s criteria. After the trial work period, if your earnings are still below the SGA limit, you can continue to receive SSD benefits.
What Happens if My Earnings Exceed the SGA Limit?
If your earnings from part-time work exceed the SGA limit, the SSA may determine that you’re capable of SGA and discontinue your SSD benefits. However, there are exceptions to this rule. For instance, if you have work-related expenses due to your disability, such as special equipment or transportation, the SSA may deduct these costs from your earnings when determining if you’re engaging in SGA.
If your SSD benefits are discontinued due to your earnings, you may be eligible for expedited reinstatement within five years if you stop working or if your earnings decrease below the SGA limit. This means you can start receiving benefits again without having to submit a new application.
What if I’m Self-Employed and Working Part-Time?
If you’re self-employed and working part-time, the SSA will use different criteria to determine if you’re engaging in SGA. They won’t just look at your earnings, but also at the nature and value of your work, and how it compares to the work of people without disabilities in your community who are in the same or similar businesses.
How Does the SSA Consider Unsuccessful Work Attempts?
If you try to return to work but have to stop or reduce your work to below the SGA level due to your disability within six months, the SSA may consider this an unsuccessful work attempt (UWA). A UWA won’t affect your eligibility for SSD benefits. However, you’ll need to provide evidence that your disability forced you to stop working or to reduce your work.
What if I’m Working Part-Time While Applying for SSD Benefits?
If you’re working part-time while applying for SSD benefits, the SSA will consider your work activity when evaluating your application. They will look at your earnings, the nature of your work, and your ability to perform it. If your earnings are below the SGA limit and your work activity is limited by your disability, you may still be eligible for benefits.
If your earnings are above the SGA limit, the SSA may deny your application on the basis that you’re capable of SGA. It’s important to note that the SSA will consider your work activity in the context of your overall medical condition and the limitations imposed by your disability.
Can I Work Part-Time While Receiving SSD Benefits?
Yes, you can work part-time while receiving SSD benefits, as long as your earnings are below the SGA limit and your work activity is consistent with your disability. However, you must report your work activity to the SSA, and they may adjust your benefits based on your earnings and work activity.
If you start working part-time while receiving SSD benefits, the SSA will conduct a work trial period to determine if you’re capable of SGA. During this period, you can continue to receive full SSD benefits regardless of your earnings, as long as your disability still meets the SSA’s criteria. After the trial work period, if your earnings are still below the SGA limit, you can continue to receive SSD benefits.
A talented attorney can help you understand these rules and ensure that you’re receiving the benefits you’re entitled to. If you’re considering part-time work or if your SSD benefits have been affected by your earnings, seek legal advice. Call Roeschke Law today at 800-975-1866 for a free consultation!