For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) Beneficiaries, a range of work incentives are available to plan for future benefit needs. These work incentives occur sequentially along a timeline to allow people to test their earning capacity. The Trial Work Period will help SSDI beneficiaries in their efforts toward employment by allowing them to test their ability to work to their fullest potential, while still receiving their SSDI cash benefit.

For SSDI Beneficiaries who engage in self-employment, the Social Security Administration offers some work incentives that can be useful in starting a business and maintaining the business. These work incentives offer a “financial cushion” during the start-up of the business and  throughout the life of the business, and are designed to help individuals reach selfsufficiency through their self-employment.

This fact sheet provides a brief overview of Self-Employment and Work Incentives for SSDI. You should contact your local Social Security Administration Office and a trained Benefits Counselor to help you understand the specifics of selfemployment and work incentives and how they apply to you.

The Impairment Related Work Expense (IRWE) is a work incentive available to individuals who receive SSDI. The IRWE allows a person to deduct the cost of certain items and services that they need to work from their gross wages. This  helps individuals to maintain eligibility for benefits longer until they can work to a level where they are self-sufficient.

For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) Beneficiaries, a range of work incentives are available to plan for future benefit needs. The Extended Period of Eligibility allows for continued eligibility of Social Security benefits while you work, after you have completed your Trial Work months.

Under the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act, a safety net is established for SSDI beneficiaries and SSI recipients who have been terminated from SSA’s roles due to work. If individuals are unable to work again due to disability, they may apply for a reinstatement of benefits. Through the Expedited Reinstatement of Benefits, you will not have to file a completely new application to begin your benefit check again.