Can SSDI and Medicare Continue When Returning to Work?

Can someone remain on SSDI and Medicare when returning to work? Circumstance: 30-year-old male currently on Social Security Disability due to 3 kidney transplants (1998, 2005, 2019). This fall he returned to work part-time in a warehouse in a temporary seasonal job ending this month, and wonders if he should call Social Security to report his return to work. He also thinks he may be offered a full-time job there. Will he lose his disability from working a temp job, and therefore lose his Medicare? If he gets a full-time job, may he keep his Medicare for a period of time (especially given repeated kidney failure every six years or so?

Yes, an individual on Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) can return to work without immediately losing their benefits, including Medicare. The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers a 9-month trial work period during which SSDI recipients can work and still receive their full benefits, regardless of how much they earn. A trial work period is defined as any month in which they earn $1,050 or more, and these months do not have to be consecutive.

After the 9-month trial work period, the SSA may conduct a Continuing Disability Review (CDR) to assess whether the individual still qualifies for SSDI. If the individual is deemed still disabled, they may enter an Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE) that lasts for 36 months. During the EPE, the individual can continue to receive SSDI for any month in which their earnings fall below a substantial gainful activity (SGA) level, which for 2024 is $1,470 for non-blind individuals.

Regarding Medicare, coverage will continue during the trial work period and EPE, and may last up to 5 years even if the individual continues working, as long as they remain medically disabled. This is particularly relevant for someone with recurring medical conditions, such as repeated kidney transplants, as their eligibility for Medicare may extend for an additional period, even if they return to full-time work.

The content on this blog is for informational purposes only and is not legal, financial, or professional advice. Social Security rules change periodically, so some information may become outdated. For the most accurate advice, consult a certified National Social Security Advisor (NSSA®). Social Security Professionals, LLC, and NSSA® are not responsible for any errors, omissions, or actions taken based on this blog's content. Use of this blog does not create a client relationship, and all information is provided "as is" without guarantees. By using this blog, you agree to hold Social Security Professionals, LLC, and NSSA® harmless from any claims or liabilities arising from its content. For personalized guidance, contact an NSSA® professional.