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Getting Past the MythsThe Basics
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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

  • The Basics
  • Myth 1: I Can't Work
  • Myth 2: If I Work, I'll Lose SSI/SSDI
  • Myth 3: If I Work, I'll Lose Health Benefits
  • Myth 4: If I Work, I'll Lose Disability Status
  • Myth 5: I Can't Get Help Finding Work
  • Myth 6: I Can't Afford to Work
  • Myth 7: If My Benefits Stop, I'll Never Get Them Again
  • Next Steps

Try It

    updated March 28, 2025
    Getting Past the Myths

    The Basics

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    The possibility of work for people with disabilities is more of a reality than ever before. Many people with disabilities have meaningful jobs that they enjoy and are successful at doing. With the right kind of training, preparation, and workplace accommodations, you can have a successful career. Work will not only let you earn your own money, but also give you independence from public benefits. You will likely meet new people and make new friends at your job. You will have the opportunity to make choices about the type of job you want to do and where you want to work.

    You may have heard many myths about how working will affect your disability benefits and health care coverage. You may be afraid that you will lose your benefits if you work. You may be concerned about how to get your benefits back if you stop working or need to work fewer hours because of your disability. We want to give you the facts about those myths, so you will feel comfortable and safe beginning or returning to work, and so you won’t worry about losing your benefits before you are ready.

    The Social Security Administration has built many safeguards into their benefits programs that will let you begin working without losing your benefits. These safeguards are ways to keep your cash benefits and health insurance benefits, if you still need them, when you go to work or change the number of hours that you work.

    In this section, we discuss seven common myths about working, with explanations of how they can be misleading and often discouraging for people with disabilities who want to work.

    Seven Myths About Work and Benefits
    • Myth #1: I can’t work because of my disability.
    • Myth #2: I will lose my SSI/SSDI benefits when I start to work.
    • Myth #3: If I work, I will lose my health care benefits.
    • Myth #4: If I start working, Social Security will decide I’m not disabled anymore.
    • Myth #5: There are no resources that can help me find and keep a job.
    • Myth #6: I can’t afford the extra costs of starting to work.
    • Myth #7: I don’t need my benefits as long as I have a job, but if I have to stop working because of my disability, I won’t be able to get my benefits back.

    Are You on SSI, SSDI, or Both? Why You Need to Know

    People often get confused about the differences between SSI and SSDI — this is very common. It is important for you to know which program you are on or if you are on both programs. This will help you understand how your benefits will be affected by working. If you don’t know which program(s) you are on, see if these brief explanations can help you figure it out.

    SSI (Supplemental Security Income)

    SSI is a “needs-based” program. This means it is for low-income people with little or no income and few resources. SSI pays up to $967 per month for a person. You may know that you are on SSI if you have had little or no paid work history. Another sign is that you get your cash benefits on the first of every month. If you are enrolled in the 1619(b) program, you are on SSI. People on SSI have a limit of $2,000 in resources. For more information on SSI read the DB101 section on SSI.

    SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance)

    SSDI is also called "SSD" or "disability" or "disability insurance benefit." SSDI works like an insurance policy. When you work, a tax called FICA is deducted from your paycheck. This is how you pay into this insurance policy. If you become disabled, you can get cash benefits from SSDI. So, to be eligible for SSDI, you must have worked in the past and paid FICA taxes. The cash benefits can be anywhere from $1 to more than $2,000 per month, depending on how long you worked and paid into this system. There are no unearned income or resource limits for SSDI. SSDI benefits are not paid on the first of the month. These benefits are paid on the third of the month or on the second, third, or fourth Wednesday of the month. For more information on SSDI, read the DB101 article on SSDI.

    If you’re still not sure which program(s) you’re on, you may want to request something called a Benefits Planning Query (BPQY) from your Social Security office. A BPQY statement has information about which disability benefits you get, including your cash benefits, health care benefits, and work history. Click here (PDF) to read Social Security's BPQY manual.

    Ready for Work?
    Answer these questions to get information and services that can help you find work.
    Do you get disability benefits from Social Security (SSI or SSDI)?
    Which of the following best describes your work experience?
    Ticket to Work
    As somebody who gets Social Security disability benefits, you have access to free employment-related services through the Ticket to Work Program.
    Visit Social Security's Ticket to Work website to learn about the Ticket to Work program, participate in a Work Incentive Seminar Event, or search for Employment Networks in your area that can provide you with services.
    More on DB101:
    • Ticket to Work Program
    • Programs that Support Work: Ticket to Work
    Arizona Rehabilitation Services
    Arizona Rehabilitation Services helps individuals with disabilities prepare for, start, and keep employment.
    Contact a Vocational Rehabilitation office in your area to sign up for an orientation to learn about the eligibility requirements and available services.
    More on DB101:
    • Finding the Right Job for You
    • Programs that Support Work: Arizona Rehabilitation Services Administration
    One-Stop Job Centers
    Visit a One-Stop Job Center online or in person to search for a job or get information services including career and skills assessment, resume and application assistance, and job referrals.
    More on DB101:
    • Finding the Right Job for You
    • Programs that Support Work: One-Stop Centers
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    Benefits and Work Calculator

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    Finding the Right Job for You

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    Managing Your Benefits While Working

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

    Getting Past the MythsMyth 1: I Can't Work
    OpenClose
    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

    • The Basics
    • Myth 1: I Can't Work
    • Myth 2: If I Work, I'll Lose SSI/SSDI
    • Myth 3: If I Work, I'll Lose Health Benefits
    • Myth 4: If I Work, I'll Lose Disability Status
    • Myth 5: I Can't Get Help Finding Work
    • Myth 6: I Can't Afford to Work
    • Myth 7: If My Benefits Stop, I'll Never Get Them Again
    • Next Steps

    Try It

      Getting Past the Myths

      Myth 1: I Can't Work

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      My doctor or other important people in my life have told me that I cannot work. They say it is too stressful and may make my condition worse.Your disability may impact the kinds of jobs you can do and the number of hours you’re able to work. However, many people with disabilities are finding that with good, thoughtful preparation and support, they are able to succeed at jobs that are satisfying and meaningful to them. It is common to have fears about your ability to work. You may be nervous about leaving your house, finding transportation to and from work, incurring new work-related expenses, and handling your new work schedule. It is normal to have these concerns, but there are many resources and laws that will support you.

      Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

      This law makes it illegal for employers to discriminate against people with disabilities if they are qualified for a job. This includes all areas of employment, such as interviewing, hiring, firing, training, promotions, and benefits. Often, with reasonable accommodations you can be successful at more jobs than you may have thought possible. Employers are required by law to offer reasonable accommodations, so that you can do your job. These accommodations will be different from person to person, depending on each person’s needs and job setting.

      Vocational Rehabilitation (VR)

      Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) can help you prepare for, find, and keep work. The services will be different from person to person, depending on individual needs. VR will work with you to figure out which services you will need. You and a VR counselor will develop a plan to help you reach your work goals. If you get Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), VR is also an example of an agency where you can use your Ticket to Work. To read more about VR services and locate an office in your area, click here.

      Job Coach

      A job coach is a person who offers specialized on-site training to help you with learning and performing your job and adjusting to the work environment. A job coach can help you with work-related concerns, such as how to talk to your boss about questions you have on the job and what accommodations you may need. You might have a job coach through your Ticket to Work Program, Vocational Rehabilitation, or through another agency.

      Disability Disclosure

      People with disabilities often wonder if they should tell their potential employers about their disability. And, if they decide to do so, should they disclose their disability during the interview, when they get a job offer, or after they have been hired. According to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the only reason to disclose your disability is if you need to request a reasonable accommodation from your employer to perform an essential function of your job. There are many reasons you may want, or not want, to disclose your disability. This decision will vary from person to person and from situation to situation.

      You may not have the option to not disclose your disability (for example, you may need to ask if the interview location is accessible or you may need an interpreter for the interview). If that’s the case, you will need to carefully write a disclosure statement to the employer. Remember to focus on your abilities, not your disabilities. For more information, you can contact the Job Accommodation Network (JAN). JAN offers information and one-on-one consultations about work place accommodations. To learn more about JAN, click here.

      You can get a job

      Some people think nobody will hire them because they have a disability.

      That’s not true: Employers will hire you. Employers want:

      • Employees who can do excellent work.
      • Employees with diverse backgrounds and experiences that help increase productivity and innovation.
      • Employees who represent the community in which they provide their products and services.

      This includes people with disabilities and employers know that.

      It’s your choice how much you tell an employer about your disability:

      • Employers cannot ask you to tell about a disability before or after you get a job.
      • Employers cannot discriminate against a person who has a disability.

      And once you start work:

      • You can decide if you want to ask for a reasonable accommodation that helps you succeed at work. Many reasonable accommodations are free or low-cost for employers.
      • Many employers have disability inclusion policies.
      • Many employers have support groups for employees with disabilities.

      The bottom line: Employers hire people who they think are skilled, qualified, and have something to offer. Once you get a job, you and your employer have the same goal: for you to succeed.

      Learn more about disclosing a disability or asking for a reasonable accommodation in DB101’s Job Supports and Accommodations article.

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      Benefits and Work Calculator

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      Finding the Right Job for You

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      Managing Your Benefits While Working

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

      Getting Past the MythsMyth 2: If I Work, I'll Lose SSI/SSDI
      OpenClose
      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

      • The Basics
      • Myth 1: I Can't Work
      • Myth 2: If I Work, I'll Lose SSI/SSDI
      • Myth 3: If I Work, I'll Lose Health Benefits
      • Myth 4: If I Work, I'll Lose Disability Status
      • Myth 5: I Can't Get Help Finding Work
      • Myth 6: I Can't Afford to Work
      • Myth 7: If My Benefits Stop, I'll Never Get Them Again
      • Next Steps

      Try It

        Getting Past the Myths

        Myth 2: If I Work, I'll Lose SSI/SSDI

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        My friend told me that he lost his Social Security when he went to work and he was not earning enough money to pay his bills. I don’t want that to happen to me.It is common to be concerned that if you start working, you’ll lose your SSI and/or SSDI benefits and that you might not earn enough to pay for all your expenses.

        Both SSI and SSDI have rules that allow you to try working without worrying about losing your benefits. Some of these rules are the same for both programs, but most of them are different for the 2 programs. If you have questions, you may want to talk to a Work Incentive Consultant.

        Here are some basic guidelines about how each program is affected by working. For detailed information, click here to read Social Security’s Guide to Employment Supports, also called “the Red Book.”

        SSI
        • SSI uses a Countable Income Calculation to figure out your cash benefits based on your monthly total countable income. Read DB101's SSI article for details on how this calculation works. Important: If you are on SSI benefits only, you will always have more money if you work.
        • If you are under age 22, on SSI, going to school, and working, you may be eligible for the Student Earned Income Exclusion (SEIE). The SEIE allows you to earn up to $2,350 per month while going to school without having your SSI benefits lowered. Over the course of a year, you can make up to $9,460 without impacting your countable earned income calculation.
        • Impairment Related Work Expenses (IRWEs) are disability-related expenses you pay for out of your own pocket so that you can work. Some examples of IRWEs are transportation expenses, assistive technology, and specialized or modified office equipment, such as desks, phones, or computers. If they’re approved by Social Security, you can deduct your IRWEs when calculating your income. This will lower your total countable income, so that you can keep more of your SSI benefits. To be approved by Social Security, the expense must:
          • Be paid for by you
          • Relate to your disabling medical condition
          • Be necessary (without it, you would be unable to work)
        • If you get SSI benefits and have a specific work goal, you may be eligible for the Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS). This program allows you to save your earnings or unearned income (like SSDI) for expenses that are related to your work goal. While using a PASS, you will continue getting your SSI benefits to pay for living expenses. PASS funds have to be kept separate from your other money, and you have to keep records of your PASS expenses. To learn more, read the DB101 article on PASS or contact a PASS Cadre.
        SSDI
        • If you are on SSDI, the Trial Work Period (TWP) allows you to try working while continuing to get your full SSDI benefits. Your Trial Work Period consists of nine Trial Work months within a 60-month (or five-year) period. This year if you earn more than $1,160 in a particular month, it counts as a Trial Work month. If you earn less than $1,160, it doesn’t. Either way, you keep getting your full SSDI benefits until you’ve used all nine Trial Work months within a 60-month (or five-year) period. For more information, read the DB101 section on SSDI and Work.
        • If you are on SSDI, you will also be eligible for an Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE). The EPE begins the first month after your Trial Work Period ends and will continue for the following 36 months (or three years). During this time, if you earn less than the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) level ($1,620 per month in 2025; $2,700 if you're blind), you will get your SSDI benefits that month. If you earn more than the SGA limit, you will not but you will still be in SSDI eligibility status. That means if earnings fall below SGA, your SSDI can simply be restarted. For more information on EPE, click here.
        • If you have any Impairment Related Work Expenses (IRWEs), Social Security allows you to deduct the value of those expenses from your gross earnings after your Trial Work Period. Deducting your IRWEs may allow you to keep your SSDI cash benefits, if it lowers your earnings below the SGA level. If you have questions about IRWEs, talk to a Work Incentive Consultant.
        • If you are on SSDI and have a specific work goal, you may want to look into the Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS) program. This program allows you to save earned and unearned income (like SSDI) to pay for expenses related to your work goal. Note that you must be eligible, or become eligible, for SSI to qualify for a PASS. While using a PASS, you will continue to get your SSI benefits to pay for living expenses. To learn more, read the DB101 article on PASS or contact a PASS Cadre.
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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

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        Managing Your Benefits While Working

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

        Getting Past the MythsMyth 3: If I Work, I'll Lose Health Benefits
        OpenClose
        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

        • The Basics
        • Myth 1: I Can't Work
        • Myth 2: If I Work, I'll Lose SSI/SSDI
        • Myth 3: If I Work, I'll Lose Health Benefits
        • Myth 4: If I Work, I'll Lose Disability Status
        • Myth 5: I Can't Get Help Finding Work
        • Myth 6: I Can't Afford to Work
        • Myth 7: If My Benefits Stop, I'll Never Get Them Again
        • Next Steps

        Try It

          Getting Past the Myths

          Myth 3: If I Work, I'll Lose Health Benefits

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          I have ongoing health care needs that I would never be able to pay for myself. People tell me I shouldn’t work because then I might not be able to see my doctors and get the care I need.Losing your health care benefits can be a huge concern, if you are thinking about going to work. However, several programs can help you keep your health care benefits when you go to work. Some jobs will offer employer-sponsored health care benefits. But for some people that will not be enough. Some people may also want to keep their Medicare or Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) benefits.

          It is important to know what type of health care coverage you have, so you know what will happen to that coverage when you go to work. The following are common public health care coverage programs for people with disabilities:

          Medicare

          Medicare is the federal health insurance program for people over age 65 and people with disabilities who are on Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). If you have gotten SSDI benefits for more than 24 months (or two years), you are probably on Medicare. If you’ve gotten SSDI benefits for less than 24 months (or two years), your Medicare will start when you’ve gotten benefits for 24 months (or two years).

          If you’re on SSDI and have to pay a Medicare Part B premium, it will be deducted from your monthly SSDI benefits amount. You may not have to pay a Part B premium if you qualify for AHCCCS health coverage or AHCCCS’s Help with Paying for Medicare Costs Only program.

          Medicare and Work

          When you work and get SSDI cash benefits, you keep your Medicare — plain and simple. If your SSDI cash benefits stop because of work, you can keep your Medicare for at least seven years and nine months from the end of your Trial Work Period. After that, if you still have a disability and would like to keep Medicare, you can maintain it by paying a monthly Part A premium.

          Extended Medicare

          You can keep your Medicare coverage for at least 8½ years after you return to work. (The 8½ years includes your nine-month Trial Work Period.) After your Trial Work Period, you will get at least seven years and nine months of continued Medicare coverage, as long as you continue to have your disabling condition according to Social Security’s rules.

          The Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS)

          Keeping AHCCCS is a big concern for people with disabilities who want to work.

          Eligibility for AHCCCS is based on your income. There are a couple of common ways you may qualify:

          • If you are under 65 years old, don't get Medicare, and your family's income is at or below 138% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines (FPG) ($21,597 per year if you are single; $44,367 for a family of four). The rules for this type of AHCCCS are explained in DB101's AHCCCS article.
          • If you have a disability or are 65 or older and your countable income is at or below 100% of FPG, which is $15,650 for a single person. Note: Countable income is not the same as total income. See DB101's AHCCCS for People with Disabilities article to learn more about how AHCCCS counts your income.

          If you work and your income is low enough, you should be able to qualify in these ways for AHCCCS. But $21,597 per year or less is not a lot of money to live on. And what if you want to save money to buy a car or a house or go on vacation? There are several other ways you can keep your AHCCCS while working and earning more.

          SSI’s 1619(b) Program

          For people on SSI, the 1619(b) program lets you work and keep AHCCCS, even if you make too much money to get SSI cash benefits. If you are on this program, you will not have to pay a premium.

          If you live in Arizona and are on SSI and AHCCCS, you can have up to $56,455 in gross income and still stay on AHCCCS. Your resources cannot be more than the $2,000 SSI resource limit ($3,000 for a family of two).

          To qualify for 1619(b) you must:

          • Have been eligible for SSI cash benefits for at least 1 month
          • Not be getting SSI benefits because you earn too much
          • Still be considered disabled or blind
          • Not have more than the SSI resource limit ($2,000 for a single person, $3,000 for a couple)
          • Need AHCCCS to be able to work
          • Not make enough money to pay for the services you get with AHCCCS benefits
          • Respond to all Social Security requests for information

          AHCCCS Freedom to Work Program

          When you have a job and your income is more than regular AHCCCS allows, you may be eligible for the AHCCCS Freedom to Work Program. The AHCCCS Freedom to Work Program covers the same services that standard AHCCCS covers, including visits to the doctor, hospital stays, medical equipment, home care services, and mental health services. The program encourages you to work and enjoy the benefits of working without having to worry that you’ll lose your health benefits.

          To qualify for AHCCCS Freedom to Work, you must meet all of the following eligibility criteria:

          • Be age 16 – 65
          • Be an Arizona resident
          • Be a United States citizen or a qualified immigrant
          • Be working and paying taxes
          • Have a Social Security number or apply for one
            • To apply for a Social Security number, visit the U.S. Social Security Administration
            • Make a copy of the form submitted as confirmation that you have applied for a Social Security number
          • Apply for potential income that may be available, such as unemployment, pension, and Social Security Disability benefits
          • Get Social Security disability benefits or be considered blind or disabled by the Disability Determination Services Administration (DDSA)
          • Not be eligible for any other AHCCCS program
          • Have $6,606 in monthly income or less per month. Whether your income is low enough will depend on your situation and what types of income you have.

          People in the program pay a monthly premium for their coverage. The premium is based on their income. The maximum monthly premium is $35. To see if you might qualify for AHCCCS Freedom to Work and what your estimated premium would be, use the DB101 AHCCCS Freedom to Work Estimator.

          To learn more about Freedom to Work, call 1-855-432-7587 or 1-602-417-5010. You can also read DB101’s AHCCCS Freedom to Work article.

          Public and Private Coverage

          Remember, you can have both private health coverage and public health coverage at the same time. Some private plans have rules limiting what services they will pay for. These rules may include some services that are critical to some people with disabilities, such as Personal Care Assistant services and private duty nursing.

          If you are eligible for Medicare or AHCCCS, which are public health coverage programs, and you get a job that offers you private group coverage, be sure you understand how they will work together. Sometimes your AHCCCS coverage will help pay for some costs associated with your private coverage, such as copayments or deductibles.

          Some reasons to consider having both private and public health coverage:

          • Many private health plans don’t cover things like transportation, private duty nursing, and Personal Care Assistant (PCA) services
          • With private coverage, you may have a wider pool of doctors and other medical service providers to choose from than with public coverage
          • Public programs may help pay some expenses of your private plan
          • Some private plans have annual or lifetime maximum amounts that they will pay

          You can read more about private health coverage, click here.

          If you don't qualify for AHCCCS or Medicare

          If your income goes up so much that you no longer qualify for AHCCCS and you can't get Medicare or employer-sponsored coverage, the government may help you pay for a private health coverage plan on HealthCare.gov.

          For more information, read DB101's Buying Health Coverage on HealthCare.gov article.

          Note: There is no income limit for getting subsidies that help pay individual coverage premiums. (Before 2021, the limit was 400% of FPG.) To get subsidies, you still must meet other eligibility rules and the premium amount you pay depends on your income and your plan.

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          Benefits and Work Calculator

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          Managing Your Benefits While Working

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          Getting Past the MythsMyth 4: If I Work, I'll Lose Disability Status
          OpenClose
          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

          • The Basics
          • Myth 1: I Can't Work
          • Myth 2: If I Work, I'll Lose SSI/SSDI
          • Myth 3: If I Work, I'll Lose Health Benefits
          • Myth 4: If I Work, I'll Lose Disability Status
          • Myth 5: I Can't Get Help Finding Work
          • Myth 6: I Can't Afford to Work
          • Myth 7: If My Benefits Stop, I'll Never Get Them Again
          • Next Steps

          Try It

            Getting Past the Myths

            Myth 4: If I Work, I'll Lose Disability Status

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            A friend of mine started working and then Social Security decided she didn’t have a disability anymore, so they cut her off completely. I don’t want that to happen to me.You may have heard that if you are working, Social Security will assume you do not have a disability anymore and then you will not be eligible for any of their programs. This is not true. Although Social Security may do a medical review of your case, they will not automatically stop your benefits just because you are working. They have to go through a process called the Continuing Disability Review (CDR) before they can stop your benefits. During the CDR, they will gather your medical records and ask you (and sometimes your family or friends) to offer information about how your disability or health condition continues to affect your life.

            Social Security may also require that you go to an appointment with a doctor who has a contract with Social Security. If they decide your condition no longer meets their definition of disability, they must notify you of that decision. If you disagree with their decision, you can file an appeal.

            However, if you are using the Ticket to Work program, and you are meeting timely progress requirements, Social Security will not do a medical CDR while your Ticket is still valid. For more information on the Ticket to Work program, click here.

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            Benefits and Work Calculator

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            Managing Your Benefits While Working

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

            Getting Past the MythsMyth 5: I Can't Get Help Finding Work
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            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

            • The Basics
            • Myth 1: I Can't Work
            • Myth 2: If I Work, I'll Lose SSI/SSDI
            • Myth 3: If I Work, I'll Lose Health Benefits
            • Myth 4: If I Work, I'll Lose Disability Status
            • Myth 5: I Can't Get Help Finding Work
            • Myth 6: I Can't Afford to Work
            • Myth 7: If My Benefits Stop, I'll Never Get Them Again
            • Next Steps

            Try It

              Getting Past the Myths

              Myth 5: I Can't Get Help Finding Work

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              I have no idea about how to go about finding and keeping a job. Is there anyone who can help me?It can be difficult looking for and finding a job if you think you have to do it all on your own. Actually, there are several excellent state and national resources that can help you. These organizations can help you prepare for your job search, find a job that’s right for you, and offer advice and support services to help you keep your job.

              Arizona One-Stop Job Centers

              One-Stop Job Centers offer free services, including job placement, skills assessments, job training, career counseling, and resume development, to jobseekers.

              You can get services online through the Arizona Virtual One-Stop by clicking here or you can go to a One-Stop Job Center in person. Find a local ARIZONA@WORK One-Stop Job Center.

              ARIZONA@WORK

              ARIZONA@WORK is a public and private partnership with a network of 47 local offices in 12 regional areas that helps employers and job seekers connect.

              ARIZONA@WORK helps employers of all sizes and types recruit, develop, and retain the best employees for their needs. ARIZONA@WORK helps job seekers throughout the state with services and resources that help with the pursuit of employment opportunities. Through the support of federal funding, ARIZONA@WORK services are provided at no charge.

              Learn more about ARIZONA@WORK.

              Vocational Rehabilitation (VR)

              Vocational Rehabilitation can help you prepare for, find, and keep work. One of the main eligibility criteria for VR services is that you must have a physical or mental disability that makes it difficult for you to find and keep a job. If you are eligible for SSI or SSDI based on your disability, you are generally eligible for VR services.

              The services VR offers vary depending on the needs of each person. VR will work with you to figure out which services you need. You and a VR counselor will develop a plan to help you reach your work goals. To read more about VR services and locate an office in your area where you can apply, click here.

              Ticket to Work

              The Ticket to Work Program is designed to help people with disabilities find and keep work. If you are 18 – 64 years old and are getting SSI or SSDI benefits, you can use your Ticket to Work from the Social Security Administration. With this program, you can access employment-related services and supports from Employment Networks (ENs), including training, job placement, job coaching, and vocational assessments. To search for an EN in your area, click here. To learn more about the Ticket to Work Program, click here.

              Other Resources

              Here are several other resources that may help you understand the work world and find and keep a job:

              • Job Accommodation Network
              • Office of Disability Employment Policy
              • The VCU Rehabilitation Research and Training Center
              • Social Security Work Site
              • Guide for People with Disabilities Seeking Employment

              You can also read our Next Steps page for more information on finding a job.

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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.

              Getting Past the MythsMyth 6: I Can't Afford to Work
              OpenClose
              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

              • The Basics
              • Myth 1: I Can't Work
              • Myth 2: If I Work, I'll Lose SSI/SSDI
              • Myth 3: If I Work, I'll Lose Health Benefits
              • Myth 4: If I Work, I'll Lose Disability Status
              • Myth 5: I Can't Get Help Finding Work
              • Myth 6: I Can't Afford to Work
              • Myth 7: If My Benefits Stop, I'll Never Get Them Again
              • Next Steps

              Try It

                Getting Past the Myths

                Myth 6: I Can't Afford to Work

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                I’m thinking about going to work but I don’t know how I will be able to afford the new expenses for clothes, transportation, meals, and additional hours of personal assistance services.You may need to pay for transportation to get to and from your job, or you may need to buy special tools or equipment. The following programs can help you with these and other costs.

                Impairment Related Work Expenses (IRWEs)

                Impairment Related Work Expenses (IRWEs) and Blind Work Expenses (BWEs) are disability-related expenses you pay for out of your own pocket, so that you can work. Some examples are assistive technology, specialized office equipment, and transportation expenses. You may be able to deduct these expenses when calculating your income so that your countable income is lower. And by lowering your countable income ,you may be able to get higher SSI benefits, or keep getting SSDI benefits when you are earning more than the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) level (in 2025 the SGA limit is $1,620; $2,700 if you're blind). If you have questions about this, talk to a Work Incentive Consultant.

                Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS)

                If you get SSI and/or SSDI benefits and have a specific work goal, you may be eligible for the Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS) program. This program allows you to save money from your earnings and/or your SSDI benefits to pay for expenses related to your work goal. While using a PASS, you will continue getting SSI benefits to pay for your living expenses. PASS funds have to be kept separate and you have to keep records of your PASS expenses.

                Social Security employs special staffers called the PASS Cadre to help you set up and understand your PASS. For more information, read DB101's PASS article or talk to a Work Incentive Consultant.

                Vocational Rehabilitation (VR)

                In some situations, Vocational Rehabilitation can help pay for the costs of assistive technology, tools, and equipment related to your new job. VR can help you and your employer to figure out which services you need, regardless of who is paying for the service. If you are not working, you and a VR counselor can develop a plan to help you reach your work goals. If you are already working, you and a VR counselor can develop a plan to help you keep that work. To read more about VR services and locate an office in your area where you can apply, click here.

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                Learn more

                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.

                Getting Past the MythsMyth 7: If My Benefits Stop, I'll Never Get Them Again
                OpenClose
                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

                • The Basics
                • Myth 1: I Can't Work
                • Myth 2: If I Work, I'll Lose SSI/SSDI
                • Myth 3: If I Work, I'll Lose Health Benefits
                • Myth 4: If I Work, I'll Lose Disability Status
                • Myth 5: I Can't Get Help Finding Work
                • Myth 6: I Can't Afford to Work
                • Myth 7: If My Benefits Stop, I'll Never Get Them Again
                • Next Steps

                Try It

                  Getting Past the Myths

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

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                  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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                  • Previous
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                  Learn more

                  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.

                  Getting Past the MythsNext Steps
                  OpenClose
                  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

                  • The Basics
                  • Myth 1: I Can't Work
                  • Myth 2: If I Work, I'll Lose SSI/SSDI
                  • Myth 3: If I Work, I'll Lose Health Benefits
                  • Myth 4: If I Work, I'll Lose Disability Status
                  • Myth 5: I Can't Get Help Finding Work
                  • Myth 6: I Can't Afford to Work
                  • Myth 7: If My Benefits Stop, I'll Never Get Them Again
                  • Next Steps

                  Try It

                    Getting Past the Myths

                    Next Steps

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                    Find a Job

                    Contact a Vocational Rehabilitation office (VR) in your area to sign up for an orientation to learn about the eligibility requirements and services VR offers. The program offers a variety of services to persons with disabilities to prepare for, get, and keep employment.

                    Visit a One-Stop Job Center online or find a local ARIZONA@WORK One-Stop Job Center to search for a job or get information on services offered, including career and skills assessment, resume and application assistance, and job referrals. The AZ Job Connection also lists many additional resources that can help you find work.

                    See how ARIZONA@WORK can help you. It is a statewide public and private partnership with a network of 47 local offices in 12 regional areas that helps employers and job seekers connect. Its free services and resources can help you find work.

                    Ticket to Work

                    Social Security’s Ticket to Work Program helps people with disabilities who get Social Security benefits re-enter the workforce and become more independent. The Ticket to Work Program offers free access to employment-related services, such as training, transportation, and vocational rehabilitation. You can call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842 or 1-866-833-2967 (TTY).

                    Benefits and Work Incentives Consulting Services

                    If you're currently on SSI, SSDI, or CDB benefits, and you're looking for a job, you should qualify for free benefits consulting services. Trained Work Incentive Counsultants at Benefits 2 Work Arizona can help you understand Social Security work incentives, disability benefit programs, and how they are impacted by work. Their goal is to help you avoid complications while developing a sustainable financial plan for your future.

                    You can contact Benefits 2 Work Arizona at 1-866-304-WORK (9675) toll-free to find a Work Incentive Consultant serving your community.

                    AZ LINKS – Aging and Disability Resource Center

                    The AZ Links – Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) helps seniors, people with disabilities, and their family members and caregivers find resources and services that meet their independent living, disability, housing, financial, legal, and health needs.

                    Find Local Services

                    You can use 2-1-1 Arizona to find social services near you, from benefits applications to job counseling.
                    2-1-1 Arizona Logo

                    Try these searches:

                    • Comprehensive Job Assistance Centers
                    • Job Finding Assistance
                    • Vocational Rehabilitation
                    • Benefits Counseling and Screening
                    • Employment Preparation
                    • Resume Preparation Assistance
                    • Volunteer Opportunities
                    • Supported Employment
                    • AHCCCS Applications
                    • Health Insurance Information/Counseling
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                    • Previous

                    Learn more

                    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.