One of the biggest concerns for individuals receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is whether returning to work means an immediate loss of their cash benefits or health coverage. Thankfully, through the Ticket to Work (TTW) program, the Social Security Administration (SSA) offers a series of safety nets called work incentives that are specifically designed to ease that transition.
Section 1: The Purpose of Work Incentives
The SSA designed work incentives to help beneficiaries explore employment while maintaining financial and medical security. Work incentives bridge the gap, giving individuals a safety net while they gain confidence and re-enter the workforce.
Section 2: Trial Work Period (TWP)
During the Trial Work Period, you can earn any amount and still receive your full SSDI benefits for up to 9 months within a rolling 60-month window.
Section 3: Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE)
After completing TWP, you have a 36-month period during which your SSDI benefits can be reinstated for any month you earn below Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limits.
Section 4: Expedited Reinstatement (EXR)
EXR allows you to quickly resume SSDI benefits without reapplying if your condition worsens and you’re unable to continue working.
Section 5: Protection from Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs)
SSA postpones medical reviews if you’re actively participating in the TTW program and making timely progress.
Section 6: SSI Work Incentives
For SSI, work income reduces benefits gradually—not dollar for dollar—thanks to earned income exclusions.
Section 7: Medicaid and Medicare Continuation
You may retain Medicare or Medicaid coverage even after cash benefits stop, ensuring healthcare access.
Section 8: Putting It All Together with Your EN
Employment Networks (ENs) help you understand, track, and take advantage of these work incentives with guidance, planning, and support.
