If you receive SSI benefits, there is no trial work period or period of extended eligibility. Any income that you earn from working may affect the amount of benefits that you receive. It is important to report all income changes to SSA. Remember to keep proof of reporting. Proof of reporting would include the date stamp on your copy of pay stubs you drop off at your local SSA office. 

In calculating your SSA benefits, SSA does not count:

• The first $20 of any income,
• The first $65 of earned income, or
• Half of the remaining earned income. 

Example: 

• If you earn $100 per month and have no other income, SSA first deducts $20 for any type of income ($100-$20=$80). Then, SSA deducts the first $65 of your earned income ($80-$65=$15). Finally, SSA  reduces this by ½ ($7.50). Here, your SSI payments would be reduced by $7.50 per month.

If your income goes up or down, SSA will recalculate your SSI amount. You may be eligible to have your benefits reinstated. That could happen if you stop getting SSI because your earnings are too high but then you lose your job or your wages are reduced. However, there are time limits on reinstatement. You should contact your local SSA office as soon as possible. 

SSA may review your eligibility for SSI benefits and decide that you are no longer disabled based on your ability to work.