Disability

Last edited Thu Feb 13, 2014, 06:00 PM - Edit history (1)

By SSDI I am Social Security Disability Income, or what you call RSDI.

You have clarified the point I'm looking for. Basically, I want to avoid the 9 months of the trial period because I don't want to reach that 36 month "Extended Period of Eligibility". If I understand correctly, that means my RSDI would end after the 36 month period, regardless of whether I get Benefits some months and not others due to going over the $1070 threshold. I don't want that to happen.

Although, you do mention there is a 5 step process and that there are other tests after the trial period and SGA. Perhaps I wouldn't be automatically dropped after 36 months, assuming I don't make over the $1070 limit for 2014.

Some specifics in my case - I've worked part time for about 8 months now and February will be the first month I'll go over the $770 limit. It will still be under $1000 though. I've talked to my employer about not giving me so many hours but with my regular schedule now (which is fluid and can change quickly), I'll average around $900 a month gross.

I'll be 58 next month if that's of any use. It also occurs to me that it would likely take 4 years or more to move through 8 more months considered part of the "trial period" and then another 36 months after that. I'll be 62 then - close to getting SS Retirement. So I could be all concerned for nothing.

Thanks again for your very thorough response.

On Edit - I think I found the answer in an SSA link

http://www.ssa.gov/redbook/eng/ssdi-only-employment-supports.htm#a0=1

It says:

"If you are not working above SGA and are eligible for a benefit payment for the 37th month of the EPE, you will continue to receive benefits until you:

•Work a month at the SGA level, or
•Medically recover."

So as you explained, I wouldn't have to worry about what happens after the 36 month Extended Period of Eligibility assuming I still stay under the SGA limit ($1070 for 2014). in other words, I won't automatically get dropped at month 37.

Please correct me if I'm wrong.