How Do SSDI Benefits Apply to Children in Wyoming?
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) in Wyoming can be influenced by work restrictions, which impact eligibility for benefits. Understanding how work activity affects SSDI recipients is crucial for maintaining continued support. Here's what you need to know about SSDI and work restrictions in Wyoming:

1. Eligibility Requirements for SSDI

• Applicants must have a disability that prevents them from performing substantial gainful activity (SGA).
• The disability must be expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.
• The individual must meet the work history requirement, having earned enough work credits through past employment.

2. Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) Limitations

• SSDI recipients are restricted in how much income they can earn while receiving benefits.
• If earnings exceed the SGA limit ($1,470 per month in 2025), they may lose eligibility for SSDI.
• Work incentives, like the Trial Work Period (TWP), allow recipients to test their ability to work without losing benefits immediately.

3. Trial Work Period (TWP)

• The Trial Work Period lets individuals with disabilities try working for up to nine months without losing SSDI benefits, regardless of how much they earn.
• Work during this period will not affect benefits as long as the person is still under the TWP rules.
• After the Trial Work Period, the Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE) allows continued benefits for months where earnings are below the SGA threshold.

4. Impact of Earnings on Benefits

• If earnings exceed the SGA limit after the Trial Work Period, SSDI benefits may be discontinued.
• However, work incentives may help people maintain benefits while working.
• The Ticket to Work program offers additional support and resources for individuals trying to return to the workforce.

5. Impact of Self-Employment

• Self-employment income is also subject to the SGA limit and can affect SSDI eligibility.
• The SSA considers both net earnings and work hours when determining whether someone is engaging in substantial gainful activity.
• Those working as self-employed individuals may need to track and report income carefully to avoid exceeding limits.

6. How Benefits Are Paid

• SSDI benefits are typically paid monthly through direct deposit or a prepaid debit card.
• If eligibility is lost due to work restrictions, benefits will be suspended, but may be reinstated if earnings fall below the SGA limit.

7. Required Documentation for Work Activity

• SSDI recipients must report any work activity to the Social Security Administration (SSA).
• Documentation of earnings and work activity is important to maintain eligibility and ensure the correct amount of benefits are received.
• Individuals may be asked to provide pay stubs or other evidence of work performance to verify their income.