Impairment Related Work Expenses (IRWEs) - Social Security Disability Insurance
Impairment Related Work Expenses (IRWEs) - Social Security Disability Insurance
Impairment Related Work Expenses (IRWEs) are items or services that are paid for by the beneficiary, related to his/her disability and necessary for work.
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What are they?
Impairment Related Work Expenses (IRWEs) are items or services that are paid for by the beneficiary, related to his/her disability and necessary for work.
How do they work?
An SSDI beneficiary can use an IRWE if they have used their Trial Work Period and they are earning a bit more than Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA). The cost of approved IRWEs is deducted from a beneficiary’s gross earnings when determining whether his/her work is above SGA.
Why are they important?
When SSDI beneficiaries are working and earning above SGA, they may not be eligible to receive an SSDI check. However, if they have IRWEs Social Security will count less of their gross earnings. This may bring their countable income below SGA which means they will continue to receive an SSDI check. Social Security will review and approve the IRWEs depending on the beneficiary’s situation, the disability and reasonableness of the cost.
Examples of items that are often considered IRWEs:
- Medication co-pays
- Medical devices
- Assistive technology
- Service animals
- Vehicle modifications for accessibility
An IRWE does not need to be a monthly recurring expense. A beneficiary may have a one-time expense, such as the purchase of medical equipment or assistive technology. They may choose to have the expense deducted as an IRWE all in one month or to have the expense pro-rated over 12 months.
Need help with this information?
DRC WIPA Intake phone number: 888-768-7058
Ticket to Work Helpline: 866-968-7842
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