Expedited Reinstatement of SSDI Benefits
Case Studies
Case Study 1: Emma Loses her Job
Emma worked her way off SSDI back in 2021. Her SSDI was terminated due to SGA-level work in May 2021. In February 2023, her doctor told her that she needs another surgery. When she talked with her employer about all the time off she will need for surgery, rehabilitation, and recovery, they agree that she cannot keep working in her current position. She plans to stop working on March 31, 2023, and schedules her surgery for April 5, 2023.
Emma is worried about how she will pay her monthly living expenses during her recovery.
Think about it. What needs to happen?
Emma will probably find peace of mind after she reviews the rules for the EXR. Because Emma’s SSDI payments were terminated due to SGA-level work less than 60 months ago, she can request EXR in April 2023. She will get up to 6 months of provisional payments while SSA considers if she has medically improved.
After her recovery, if Emma is able to return to work at the SGA level, she will get IRP payments only in the months that her countable earnings are at or below the SGA level. Her IRP could last for many years before she gets 24 IRP payments. After 24 IRP payment months, Emma may begin a new TWP and EPE.
The takeaway
Knowing about EXR can provide peace of mind to an SSDI beneficiary. If the original disability (or a related disability) prevents them from having countable earnings over the SGA level, EXR may allow their SSDI payment to begin again quickly.