It is possible to work and receive disability benefits at the same time, though the Social Security Administration (SSA) has a number of rules and regulations that govern disability beneficiaries working. All of these rules and regulations are included in the SSA’s “Red Book.”
The Red Book is an administrative manual. It is updated annually and used by SSA employees and other professionals that assist disabled individuals.
People receiving disability benefits as well as their legal counsel, family members, and others can access the Red Book online via the SSA’s website here.
Working while disabled can affect benefits in different ways dependent upon a number of factors, including the type of benefits you receive.
The Red Book contains the rules that apply to people who get:
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits
- Both SSI and SSDI benefits
In addition to explaining how employment can affect benefit eligibility and the amount of monthly benefit payments, the Red Book contains information on the SSA’s work incentive and assistance programs. These programs may allow you to work without concern for losing or reducing your monthly disability benefits.
