Can SSDI benefits be taken away if I go back to work in Oregon?
By Hogan Smith
Updated 12/15/2025
Can SSDI benefits be taken away if I go back to work in Oregon? In Oregon, SSDI benefits may be impacted if you return to work, but they are not automatically taken away. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses specific rules to determine if your earnings affect your eligibility, including limits on how much you can earn and still receive benefits. If your work income exceeds certain thresholds, your benefits might be reduced or suspended, but returning to work can sometimes be encouraged through programs that support a gradual return.
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Work Incentives and Earnings Limits
Understanding how work affects SSDI benefits in Oregon:
- Trial Work Period (TWP) allows you to test your ability to work for up to 9 months without losing benefits.
- If your monthly earnings exceed the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) amount, benefits could be at risk.
- SGA limits currently stand at a specific amount set annually by the SSA.
Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE)
This phase offers protection for beneficiaries:
- Lasts for 36 months after the TWP ends.
- Benefits continue for any month you earn below the SGA limit.
- If earnings exceed the limit, benefits may be suspended but can restart if earnings drop again.
Impairment-Related Work Expenses
Certain costs can be deducted from earnings:
- Expenses related to your disability that are necessary for work may be deducted to lower countable earnings.
- This can help you stay under the SGA threshold and maintain benefits.
Impact of Earnings on Medical Review
Returning to work may trigger SSA review:
- SSA may reassess your disability status once your work activity or earnings reach certain levels.
- This evaluation can lead to continuation, suspension, or cessation of benefits based on ability to engage in substantial work.
Important Considerations
Keep these factors in mind:
- Reporting earnings promptly to SSA is crucial to avoid overpayments.
- The Ticket to Work program may provide resources and support to transition back to employment.
- Working part-time or earning below limits often allows benefits to continue.
How Hogan Smith Can Help
At Hogan Smith, we support Oregonians with questions about whether SSDI benefits can be affected when returning to work by:
- Explaining work incentives and how your earnings might influence your SSDI status.
- Helping you navigate SSA rules like the Trial Work Period and Extended Period of Eligibility without jeopardizing your benefits.
- Assisting in reporting your income correctly to avoid benefit overpayments or interruptions.
- Providing guidance on programs such as Ticket to Work to support your employment goals while maintaining benefits.
Contact Hogan Smith Today
If you have concerns about your SSDI benefits being taken away when you decide to work in Oregon, contact Hogan Smith today for a free consultation. Our knowledgeable team will help you understand your rights and options, ensuring you make informed decisions about working and maintaining your Social Security benefits with confidence.
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