How can I check the status of my SSDI claim online in Illinois?
By Hogan Smith
Updated 12/15/2025
Can SSDI benefits be taken away if I go back to work in Tennessee? In Tennessee, SSDI benefits can be affected if you return to work, but this depends on your earnings and the nature of your employment. Generally, the Social Security Administration (SSA) has rules to determine if you are engaging in "substantial gainful activity" (SGA), which may lead to a suspension or termination of your benefits. Your work earnings are closely monitored to see if they exceed limits set for SSDI recipients. However, there are programs like Trial Work Periods that let you test your ability to work without immediately losing benefits.
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Understanding Work and Earnings Limits
Key points on how work affects your SSDI:
- SSDI sets an earnings threshold called Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA); earning above this may end benefits.
- Current SGA limits adjust annually - for 2024, earnings above $1,470 (non-blind) or $2,460 (blind) typically count as SGA.
- Trial Work Period (TWP) allows you to work for up to 9 months without losing benefits, regardless of earnings.
Trial Work Period Details
This feature helps SSDI recipients transition:
- During the trial work period, you can earn any amount without stopping benefits for those 9 months.
- The months in TWP do not need to be consecutive but must occur within a 60-month window.
- After TWP, earnings above SGA may lead to benefit suspension or termination.
Continuing Disability Review (CDR)
The SSA may review your case when you return to work:
- SSA conducts periodic evaluations to confirm if you still meet disability criteria.
- Working may trigger a CDR, so it's important to report your income and work status accurately.
Potential Outcomes of Returning to Work
Your benefits could:
- Continue if earnings stay below SGA and your condition still meets SSA's definition of disability.
- Be suspended temporarily if you exceed earnings limits but later restarted if work stops.
- Be terminated if SSA finds you can engage in substantial work long-term.
Importance of Reporting Work Activity
Always keep SSA informed:
- Failing to report earnings can cause overpayments and legal issues.
- Accurate reporting helps you avoid interruptions and penalties.
How Hogan Smith Can Help
At Hogan Smith, we guide Tennessee SSDI recipients on how returning to work can affect their benefits by:
- Explaining SSA's work rules and earnings limits so you can make informed decisions about employment.
- Assisting with reporting your work activity accurately to prevent benefit suspensions or penalties.
- Helping you navigate trial work periods and continuing disability reviews to maximize retained benefits.
- Representing you in discussions and appeals with the Social Security Administration if benefits are threatened.
Contact Hogan Smith Today
If you have questions about whether your SSDI benefits in Tennessee could be taken away if you return to work, contact Hogan Smith for a free consultation. Our knowledgeable team will help you understand your rights, navigate SSA rules, and protect your benefits while exploring employment opportunities.
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