Hi Larry : I was checking on social security and just happened to find your site. I am 62 years old and have been on ssd for about a year now and I was a chef for the 39 years before I became disabled . I want to work part time and I know i can earn an unlimited amt . After the 9 month period I am tied into $1.170 per month's that gross wages or net. I do not understand what constitutes a 5 th week and how it works what amt of hours can I work and how do I figure this out without going over? And, do I report my earnings to social security every week or bi -weekly depending on the job? I am still very confused on how all this works.
Thank you for your assistance

Kevin J

Hi,

You can generally earn an average of up to $1,170 per month in gross wages after your trial work period ends without losing your disability benefits (https://www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10095.pdf). There are generally 13 weeks in each 3 month period, so an average month includes 4 & 1/3 weeks of earnings.

Social Security will advise you how often to submit proof of your earnings, although you will want to report any significant changes in your work or earnings as soon as possible.

Best, Jerry