Benefits Claim Advice

Menu
Contact
Apply Now
Menu

How Much Money Can You Make on Social Security Disability?

Table Of Content

 

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to understanding how much money you can make while receiving these benefits. As we move into 2024, understanding the SSDI payment rates, income limits, and how to maximize your benefits is more important than ever. Here’s how much money you can make while on Social Security and how to find out which benefits are available.
filing for social security disability

Current SSDI Payment Rates in 2024

The amount you receive through SSDI in 2024 is primarily determined by your lifetime earnings before becoming disabled. The Social Security Administration (SSA) calculates your monthly benefit based on the income you earned during your working years and applies a formula that incorporates your highest-earning years. This means that individuals with higher lifetime earnings can generally expect a higher monthly SSDI benefit.
For 2024, the average SSDI payment for a disabled worker is estimated to be around $1,483 per month, though this amount can vary depending on your individual work history and earnings. The maximum benefit someone could receive in 2024 is $3,627 per month. These amounts are adjusted annually to account for inflation through cost-of-living adjustments (COLA).

The Impact of Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLA)

One major factor that influences your monthly SSDI benefit is the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). This annual increase is designed to ensure that your benefits keep pace with inflation. In 2024, a significant COLA increase has been applied to reflect the rising costs of goods and services. This means that the benefits received by SSDI recipients will be higher than in previous years, helping them maintain their purchasing power despite inflation.
For many recipients, the COLA adjustment is an important lifeline, especially as living expenses continue to rise. While the COLA helps adjust your SSDI benefits, it does not affect the amount of money you can earn while on disability, which we will discuss further below.

Impact of Other Income on Your SSDI

what medical conditions are eligible for disability
One of the most frequently asked questions by those receiving SSDI is how much additional income they are allowed to earn while still receiving their benefits. The SSA has strict rules regarding how much you can work and still qualify for disability benefits. These rules are primarily guided by the concept of substantial gainful activity (SGA).

Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) Limits

In 2024, the SGA limit for non-blind individuals is $1,470 per month, while for blind individuals, the limit is $2,660 per month. If you earn more than these amounts, the SSA will typically determine that you are engaged in substantial gainful activity and may disqualify you from receiving SSDI benefits. It is important to note that these limits apply only to earned income, such as wages from a job or self-employment. Passive income, such as money earned from investments, does not count towards the SGA limit.

Part-Time Work and Passive Income

Many SSDI recipients wonder if they can still work part-time and maintain their benefits. The good news is that you are allowed to earn some income while receiving SSDI, as long as your earnings remain below the SGA threshold. Working part-time can be a way to supplement your SSDI benefits without risking your eligibility, but it’s important to monitor your income closely to avoid exceeding the SGA limit.
In addition to part-time work, passive income sources, such as dividends from investments or rental income, generally do not count towards the SGA limit. This means you can continue to receive income from these sources without affecting your SSDI benefits, provided the income does not come from active work or services you perform.

The Ticket to Work Program

For those who want to attempt a return to work without immediately losing their benefits, the SSA offers the Ticket to Work program. This initiative allows you to test your ability to work while still receiving SSDI benefits. Under this program, you can receive job training and employment support while working for some time without losing your benefits. During the trial work period, there is no cap on the amount of income you can earn, but it’s important to note that this period is temporary, and after the trial period ends, your income will be subject to the regular SGA limits.
The Ticket to Work program provides flexibility and can be a valuable resource for individuals who wish to transition back to the workforce while maintaining a safety net through their SSDI benefits.

Maximizing Your Benefits with Benefits Claim Advice

Understanding the complex rules surrounding SSDI and how much income you can earn while receiving benefits can be challenging. That’s where Benefits Claim Advice can support you. Our team specializes in helping you understand and navigate the Social Security system, making sure that you are aware of all the benefits you are entitled to and how to make the most of them.
One of the key areas where we can assist in helping you understand the rules about income and work limits. Whether you’re looking to return to work part-time, explore passive income opportunities, or participate in the Ticket to Work program, our experts can guide you through the process to ensure that you don’t inadvertently jeopardize your benefits.
In addition to helping you understand these rules, we provide expert guidance on how to maximize your benefits. For example, we can help you explore other financial assistance programs or help you navigate the appeals process if your SSDI application has been denied. Our goal is to ensure that you receive every dollar you are entitled to, and we offer this service with no out-of-pocket costs. You only pay if you win, so there is no financial risk to you.

Applying for and maintaining SSDI benefits can be a complicated process, and many individuals find that they need legal assistance to ensure that they are receiving the maximum benefits possible. Benefits Claim Advice can connect you with top disability attorneys who specialize in SSDI claims. These attorneys are well-versed in the nuances of Social Security law and can help you navigate the complexities of the system.
If you’ve been denied SSDI benefits or are unsure whether you’re receiving the correct amount, having an experienced attorney on your side can make a significant difference. Your lawyer will review your case, gather necessary documentation, and represent you in hearings or appeals if needed. Most importantly, there are no upfront costs for legal assistance. You only pay if you win your case, meaning there’s no financial burden to pursue legal representation.
By working with a disability attorney, you can rest assured that your case is being handled by professionals who know the ins and outs of the Social Security system. This ensures that you’re not leaving any money on the table and that you’re receiving every dollar you’re entitled to.

Filing for Disability Applications with Confidence

The process of applying for SSDI benefits can be daunting, especially for those unfamiliar with the system. Incomplete or incorrect applications are one of the main reasons why SSDI claims are denied, which is why it’s so important to submit a thorough and accurate application from the start.
At Benefits Claim Advice, we help individuals navigate the SSDI application process with confidence. Our team of experts will walk you through each step, ensuring that your paperwork is complete, accurate, and submitted on time. This personalized support can significantly increase your chances of having your application approved on the first try.
From gathering the necessary medical records to guiding how to fill out forms, our team is with you every step of the way. We understand how important these benefits are to you, and we are committed to making the application process as smooth as possible. If your initial claim is denied, we also offer support during the appeals process, ensuring that you don’t have to face the challenges of the Social Security system alone.

Common Questions About Earning Money on SSDI

Can I Work and Still Receive SSDI Benefits?

Yes, you can work while receiving SSDI benefits, but your income must remain below the SGA limit set by the SSA. For 2024, the SGA limit is $1,470 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,660 per month for blind individuals. If your earnings exceed this limit, you may no longer qualify for SSDI benefits.

What Happens if I Exceed the SGA Limit?

If you exceed the SGA limit, the SSA may determine that you are no longer eligible for SSDI benefits. However, there are exceptions, such as the Ticket to Work program, which allows you to test your ability to work without losing your benefits immediately.

Can Passive Income Affect My SSDI Benefits?

No, passive income, such as money earned from investments or rental properties, does not count toward the SGA limit. Only earned income, such as wages from a job, is subject to the SGA limit.

How Can I Maximize My SSDI Benefits?

To maximize your SSDI benefits, it’s important to understand the rules surrounding income limits and how to work within those limits. Additionally, seeking expert guidance from services like Benefits Claim Advice can help you navigate the complex Social Security system and ensure that you’re receiving the maximum benefits possible.

The Role of Medicare in SSDI Benefits

what medical conditions qualify for social security disability
When you qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you may also become eligible for Medicare, which can significantly help manage healthcare costs. However, there are some important timelines and eligibility requirements that SSDI recipients need to understand when it comes to accessing Medicare.
Once you are approved for SSDI, you will automatically be enrolled in Medicare after a 24-month waiting period. This waiting period starts from the month you first become eligible for SSDI payments, not from when you start receiving benefits. In some cases, this waiting period may be waived, particularly for individuals with specific conditions such as end-stage renal disease (ESRD) or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
Medicare is divided into several parts, and understanding how these parts work is essential for maximizing your health coverage. 

Medicare Part A  

Primarily covers hospital expenses, inpatient care, and some types of home healthcare. Most SSDI recipients do not have to pay premiums for Part A.

Medicare Part B

Covers outpatient care, doctor’s visits, and preventive services. While Part B is optional, it comes with a monthly premium that is typically deducted from your SSDI payments. However, many people find that the coverage it provides for routine medical care is invaluable.

Medicare Part D

Provides prescription drug coverage, and beneficiaries can choose a plan based on their specific medication needs. Part D plans are administered by private insurers, and premiums will vary depending on the provider and coverage.
It’s important to plan ahead for your healthcare needs when you start receiving SSDI benefits, especially during the waiting period before Medicare kicks in. Some recipients may qualify for Medicaid during this period, depending on their income and assets. Medicaid can act as a supplemental insurance program, covering healthcare costs that are not otherwise met by Medicare.
Navigating Medicare’s rules and figuring out how to coordinate your SSDI benefits with health insurance can be complex. Working with experts, such as those at Benefits Claim Advice, can help you make the right choices and ensure that your healthcare is adequately covered without unnecessary out-of-pocket expenses.

How Social Security Disability Reviews Work

Once you begin receiving SSDI benefits, your case will not necessarily remain static. The Social Security Administration (SSA) conducts periodic reviews, known as Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs), to determine if you still meet the medical criteria for disability. Understanding how these reviews work is crucial to maintaining your benefits and ensuring there are no unexpected disruptions.
The frequency of your CDR will depend on the nature of your disability. If your condition is expected to improve, the SSA may schedule your review every three years. For disabilities that are not expected to improve or that are considered permanent, reviews may be conducted every seven years or less frequently. In some cases, beneficiaries with terminal or progressively worsening conditions may be exempt from regular reviews.
When the SSA conducts a CDR, they will evaluate your medical records, your ability to perform substantial gainful activity (SGA), and any recent treatments or improvements in your condition. It’s important to provide thorough and up-to-date medical documentation during this review. If the SSA determines that your condition has improved to the point where you are capable of engaging in SGA, your benefits may be discontinued.
If your benefits are stopped due to a CDR, you have the right to appeal the decision. During the appeals process, you can continue to receive your benefits while the case is being reviewed. However, you must request an appeal within 10 days of receiving the notice to avoid an interruption in payments.

Contact Benefits Claim Advice for Support and Learn How Much Money You Can Make While on Social Security

Understanding how much money you can make while on Social Security and receiving SSDI benefits in 2024 can be complicated because of the extensive rules, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. Benefits Claim Advice is here to help you through every step of the process, from understanding income limits to maximizing your benefits and filing your application with confidence. Contact us to learn more about getting the support you need to file your claim.

Get Disability Benefits Help

Take this free, no obligation evaluation to see how much you may qualify to receive

Apply now