The BasicsMyth 1: I Can't WorkMyth 2: If I Work, I'll Lose SSI/SSDIMyth 3: If I Work, I'll Lose Health BenefitsMyth 4: If I Work, I'll Lose Disability StatusMyth 5: I Can't Get Help Finding WorkMyth 6: I Can't Afford to WorkMyth 7: If My Benefits Stop, I'll Never Get Them AgainNext Steps

Getting Past the Myths

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    Getting Past the Myths

    Myth 7: If My Benefits Stop, I'll Never Get Them Again

    I’m doing pretty well at work, but my disability gets worse sometimes. I’m afraid I won’t be able to get SSI or SSDI if I need them. Will they think I'm not disabled because I was working?

    If you are not able to keep working or if you need to work fewer hours, you might worry about going through the long process of applying for benefits again.

    However, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) have rules to help people who work. These may allow your benefits to be restarted without your having to reapply.

    SSI
    • If you are on the SSI 1619(b) program and your income drops below a certain level, you will be eligible for SSI benefits again without needing to reapply. For information on this, talk to a Work Incentive Consultant.
    • Once you are no longer eligible for SSI or 1619(b), you may be eligible for Expedited Reinstatement (EXR). If your SSI benefits stopped because of your earnings from work, and you were eligible for SSI within the last five years, you can use EXR to begin getting SSI benefits again. For more information, click here.
    SSDI
    • Once again, the Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE) can help you here. The EPE begins the first month after your Trial Work Period ends and it will continue for 36 months (or three years) in a row. During this time, if you earn less than the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) level, you will get your SSDI benefits that month. If you earn more than the SGA level, you will not get SSDI benefits. No new application is required to get your SSDI benefits if your earnings are less than the SGA level. For more information, read DB101's SSDI and Work page.
    • You may also be eligible for Expedited Reinstatement (EXR). If your Social Security benefits stop because of your earnings, you can use EXR to get your SSDI benefits restarted, if you stopped working within five years of the time your benefits ended. To learn more, click here.

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    Benefits and Work Calculator

    Got a work plan? See how it would help your situation.

    Finding the Right Job for You

    Get some tips and resources that make it easier to find a job or career.

    Managing Your Benefits While Working

    See how work affects benefits and how to report your income.