Social Security and Work
Thousands of people with HIV infection are receiving Social Security disability benefits under two programs: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
Both SSDI and SSI have work incentives that protect your entitlement to monthly cash payments and/or Medicare or Medicaid until you are able to earn enough to live and pay for your own health insurance. Work-incentive programs are designed to encourage you to work and to be sensitive to your needs as a disabled person. You can try work and see how you do, and if you get sick you can resume your benefits.
When you are considering going to work or increasing from part time to full time work, write or call your Social Security representative about this change. If you earn income and don't inform Social Security, you may lose your benefits.
Work incentives include:
Both SSDI and SSI have work incentives that protect your entitlement to monthly cash payments and/or Medicare or Medicaid until you are able to earn enough to live and pay for your own health insurance. Work-incentive programs are designed to encourage you to work and to be sensitive to your needs as a disabled person. You can try work and see how you do, and if you get sick you can resume your benefits.
When you are considering going to work or increasing from part time to full time work, write or call your Social Security representative about this change. If you earn income and don't inform Social Security, you may lose your benefits.
Work incentives include:
- Continuation of monthly cash benefit check
- Continued Medicare or Medicaid coverage
- Help in paying certain work expenses
- Help in paying for some education, training, and vocational rehabilitation