October 11 – SSDI, Section 301 Payments, and Work
Question: I am working with a Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) beneficiary who was found medically improved during their last medical continuing disability review (CDR). He was also approved for Section 301 payments. Just last month, while still enrolled in the vocational program and receiving Section 301 payments, he began working. He is earning $1,000 per month. How do those earnings affect his Section 301 payments?
Answer: First, Social Security determines if the work experience is part of the individual’s employment plan. If so, Section 301 payments may continue. Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) determinations, the Trial Work Period (TWP) and the extended period of eligibility (EPE) do not apply to individuals who receive Title II Section 301 payments due to participation in a VR or similar program.
If the work experience isn’t part of the individual’s plan, Social Security will determine if the individual has stopped participating in his/her plan or if the program is completed. If either of these is true, Section 301 payments will terminate.
Would you like to find out more about WIPA and your benefits? Contact your statewide WIPA Program-Project 20/20 if you have questions like our Daily Tips or want to learn more about working while receiving social security disability benefits. Call our North Augusta office at 803-279-9611 or the Ticket to Work Helpline at 1-866-968-7842. You can also complete a Contact Us or Self-referral Form.