I saw a post that is close to my situation - but not quite the same.

I have been disabled since 2010 and am on SSDI. I will be 65 in December. I have an opportunity to become a travel agent. Although working with a host agency, I'd really be self-employed and any income would result in a 1099. I'm not likely to earn income, or much any way, until at least a year or so. At which point I'll be 66.

Much of this year will be training within online courses. If I do any bookings one doesn't receive commissions until the person booking has actually taken their cruise. Hence why I am not likely to earn income for at least a year. More likely to spend joining the cruise industry organization (CLIA) and taking a few courses.

Can I do this without losing my SSDI? I know at age 66 I should convert to SS. (I was born in 1952) I don't want to lose my benefits, but mentally I want to do something! It's been a rough few years and I'm finally hoping there is something I can do.

Thank you!

Hi,

Assuming that you haven't previously worked since starting your Social Security disability (SSDI) benefit entitlement, you could probably return to work at age 65 and not have to worry about losing your benefits. SSDI recipients are allowed a 9 month trial work period and a 3 month grace period that follows during which their benefits continue. That should carry you up to your full retirement age of 66 at which time your SSDI will convert to regular retirement benefits, and there will be no limit on your earnings at that point.

In theory, Social Security could do a medical review and terminate your SSDI with or without work, but that's unlikely. For more detailed information about working while on SSDI, refer to this Social Security publication: https://www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10095.pdf.

Best, Jerry