Can SSDI benefits be taken away if I go back to work in Nebraska?

By Hogan Smith

Updated 12/12/2025

Can SSDI benefits be taken away if I go back to work in Nebraska? In Nebraska, your Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits may be affected if you return to work. The Social Security Administration (SSA) has specific rules about earning limits and work activity that can impact your benefits. If your earnings exceed the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) threshold, your SSDI benefits might be suspended or terminated. However, there are programs, like the Ticket to Work, that support you in returning to work without immediately losing benefits.

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Understand the Substantial Gainful Activity Limit

In Nebraska, to keep SSDI benefits, your earnings must be:

  • Below the SSDI income limit, which is adjusted annually.
  • Based on your monthly earnings before deductions.
  • If you earn above this, benefits could be suspended or terminated.
Trial Work Period (TWP)

SSA offers a trial period to encourage work:

  • You can earn any amount for 9 months within a 60-month period without losing benefits.
  • Helps you test your ability to maintain gainful employment.
Extended Period of Eligibility

After TWP, there is a phase where benefits may continue:

  • Lasts for 36 months after TWP ends.
  • You can earn below the SGA limit and still receive benefits.
Reporting Work Activity

Always inform SSA about your work:

  • Reporting earnings prevents overpayments and penalties.
  • SSA may request pay stubs or employer verification.
Work Incentive Programs

There are programs to ease the transition back to work:

  • Ticket to Work offers employment services and support.
  • Impairment Related Work Expenses (IRWE) can reduce your countable income.
Risk of Benefit Termination

If earnings remain high:

  • SSA may end your SSDI benefits if you sustain work above SGA for a long period.
  • You can request reinstatement within certain time frames if disability recurs.

How Hogan Smith Can Help

At Hogan Smith, we support Nebraska residents by:

  • Explaining how returning to work might impact your SSDI benefits and income limits.
  • Guiding you through SSA’s trial work period and reporting requirements to protect your benefits.
  • Assisting in identifying and applying for work incentive programs that can safeguard your income.
  • Representing you in communications with the Social Security Administration to address benefit concerns.

Contact Hogan Smith Today

If you're worried about whether your SSDI benefits will be taken away when you return to work in Nebraska, contact Hogan Smith for a free consultation. Our experienced team will help you understand your rights, navigate SSA rules, and work toward preserving your benefits while pursuing employment.

Further Reading

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Updated February 10, 2025

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Updated February 10, 2025

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Updated February 10, 2025

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