Working while on SSI or SSDI: start with free benefits counseling

Many people who get SSI or SSDI want to work but worry about losing their income or health coverage. That worry is reasonable, and it is also why Social Security funds free, expert help. You can find out exactly how a job would affect your benefits before you accept it.

Step 1: Talk to a free benefits counselor (WIPA)

Social Security funds Work Incentives Planning and Assistance (WIPA) counselors across the country. They look at your own benefits and explain how a job would change your payments and health insurance.

Call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842 (TTY 1-866-833-2967), Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern, and ask for a referral to a WIPA near you.

Step 2: Learn the work incentives that apply to you

Social Security has rules called work incentives that let people test working without losing benefits right away, and in many cases keep health coverage while working. Which ones apply depends on whether you get SSI, SSDI or both, so ask your counselor.

Dollar limits change every year, so check current numbers with your counselor or Social Security rather than an old article.

Step 3: Use Ticket to Work and Vocational Rehabilitation

• Ticket to Work is a free program for people ages 18 to 64 who get SSI or SSDI because of a disability. It connects you with employment services such as job search help and training.
• Your state Vocational Rehabilitation agency can offer counseling, training, job placement and help with tools or workplace changes you need.

Step 4: Check the offer before you say yes

• Ask for a day to review the offer. “I’d like a day to check the schedule with my benefits counselor” is a normal thing to say.
• Bring the pay and hours to your counselor and ask what would change.
• Once you start, report your earnings to Social Security as required. Your counselor can show you how.

Asking for accommodations

Under the Americans with Disabilities Act, employers with 15 or more employees must consider reasonable accommodations, such as a different schedule or equipment, unless it would cause undue hardship. You decide what to share and when.

FAQ

Will I lose my benefits the moment I start working?

Not necessarily. Work incentives often let people keep some or all benefits while they test working. A free WIPA benefits counselor can tell you what applies in your case.

Is benefits counseling really free?

Yes. Social Security funds WIPA projects that serve the whole country. Call 1-866-968-7842 for a referral.

Do I have to tell an employer I get SSI or SSDI?

No. Your benefits are private. You may choose to share a disability if you want to ask for an accommodation.

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