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Social Security Disability Trial Work Period

Disabled people who are not able to work can apply to receive benefits from the Social Security Administration. Sometimes the injury or disability is permanent and the condition worsens over time. This can leave the individual with the realization that they may never be able to work again.

However, for others, conditions do improve and their ability to work may improve over time. They may want to try working but are afraid to lose the life-saving benefits they have been receiving. The good news is that there is a work trial period for those on disability.

Trial Work Period, commonly abbreviated as TWP, is a program where the individual can work for up to 9 months to “test the waters” and not have to worry about losing their benefits. In fact, the benefits stay the same for the entire period.

Working on Disability

An individual may still work some while on disability and not trigger the TWP. The dollar threshold amount is $940 per month. If the covered individual makes more than $940 per month then the TWP is triggered.

The nine month trial period does not have to be consecutive. If you worked for two months and had to stop, you still then have another 7 months on your TWP. The idea is to see what you are capable of doing and trying again if you stop is perfectly acceptable.

Notify Social Security Administration

If you are on disability and decide to work, you must notify the SSA. The best way to do this is to send them you your check stubs. You want to be forthcoming with the SSA and remove any potential future obstacles you can.

Ticket to Work

There is a program called Ticket to Work which specializes in helping once disabled people find work. It supports people 18-64 years of age who are on disability and are looking for work. To find a provider that is best for you, call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842 or 1-866-833-2967 (TTY) Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET

Attorney

There are attorneys which specialize in this field. Having an attorney manage your disability case is probably the smartest thing you can do. It greatly improves your odds in all facets of the experience. If you are in or near Brevard County and wish to receive legal help please contact us.