Averaging - Social Security Disability Insurance
Averaging - Social Security Disability Insurance
If you receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and your work schedule varies each month, you probably have fluctuating wages. This is often experienced by individuals working in restaurants, hotels, and retail stores.
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What is it?
If you receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and your work schedule varies each month, you probably have fluctuating wages. This is often experienced by individuals working in restaurants, hotels, and retail stores. If this occurs, the Social Security Administration (SSA) can average your earnings out over multiple months to determine if they are above Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA).
How does it work?
When your earnings fluctuate above and below the SGA level, SSA may average your earnings to help determine how much to count. This helps SSA to decide if your earnings are above or below SGA and whether you are entitled to your SSDI check. This cannot be used during your Trial Work Period (TWP) or after your Grace Period has been used.
Why is it important?
SSDI beneficiaries with variable work schedules may be able to continue receiving their SSDI checks if their average earnings are below SGA after the TWP ends.
Need help with this information?
DRC WIPA Intake phone number: 888-768-7058
Ticket to Work Helpline: 866-968-7842
This factsheet is funded through a Social Security cooperative agreement. Although Social Security reviewed this document for accuracy, it does not constitute an official Social Security communication. We publish this factsheet at U.S. taxpayer expense.